REPORT
Millport Coastal Flood Protection Scheme: Environmental Statement
Chapter 22 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
Client: North Ayrshire Council
Reference: PB4749-RHD-ZZ-XX-RP-Z-0022 Status: Final/P01.01 Date: 31 January 2020
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Document title: Millport Coastal Flood Protection Scheme: Environmental Statement
Document short title: Reference: PB4749-RHD-ZZ-XX-RP-Z-0022 Status: P01.01/Final Date: 31 January 2020 Project name: Millport Coastal Flood Protection Scheme Project number: PB4749 Author(s): David Stokoe
Drafted by: David Stokoe
Checked by: Amy Savage
Date / initials: 23/01/2020
Approved by: Amy Savage
Date / initials: 23/01/2020
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Table of Contents
22 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact 1 22.1 Introduction 1 22.2 Policy, Legislation and Guidance 1 22.3 Consultation 8 22.4 Methodology 11 22.5 Existing Environment 21 22.6 Impact Assessment 28 22.7 Summary of Effects 54 22.8 Conclusions 57 22.9 References 58
Table of Tables
Table 22-1 Summary of key international legislation and policy relevant to this proposed scheme 2 Table 22-2 Summary of key national legislation and policy relevant to this proposed scheme 2 Table 22-3 Relevant local planning policies 5 Table 22-4 Consultation responses 8 Table 22-5 Landscape / Seascape Sensitivity and Magnitude 13 Table 22-6 Visual Receptor Sensitivity and Magnitude 17 Table 22-7 Evaluation of Landscape and Visual Effects 18 Table 22-8 Viewpoint Locations 19 Table 22-9 Key Seascape / Landscape and Visual Characteristics 25 Table 22-10 Consideration of Design Opportunities 28 Table 22-11 Construction Effects (Landscape) of the Proposed Onshore Flood Protection Works 31 Table 22-12 Consideration of proposed scheme against key characteristics of the Millport CCA. 36 Table 22-13 Construction Effects (Visual) of the Proposed scheme 38 Table 22-14 Viewpoint Analysis – Millburn Street 39 Table 22-15 Viewpoint Analysis – Crichton Street 40 Table 22-16 Viewpoint Analysis – Clyde Street 41 Table 22-17 Viewpoint Analysis – Millport Pier 42 Table 22-18 Viewpoint Analysis – Stuart Street 43
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Table 22-19 Viewpoint Analysis – Guildford Street 44 Table 22-20 Viewpoint Analysis – Glasgow Street 45 Table 22-21 Viewpoint Analysis – Kelburn Street 46 Table 22-22 Viewpoint Analysis – Farland Hill 47 Table 22-23 Visual Effects on Views from Recreational Routes 50 Table 22-24 Visual Effects on Recreational and Tourist Destinations 52 Table 22-25 Visual Effects on Views from Ferry / Sailing Routes 53 Table 22-26 Summary of seascape, landscape and visual effects 54
Table of Figures
Figure 22-1 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Study Area (2km) Figure 22-2 Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) to 2km with Viewpoints Figure 22-3 Landscape and Seascape Character (2km) Figure 22-4 Landscape Planning Designations (2km) Figure 22-5 Recreational Routes and Key Tourist Destinations (2km) Figure 22-6 Viewpoint 1 Milburn Street Figure 22-7 Viewpoint 2 Chricton Street Figure 22-8 Viewpoint 3 Clyde Street Figure 22-9 Viewpoint 4 Millport Pier Figure 22-10 Viewpoint 5 Stuart Street Figure 22-11 Viewpoint 6 Guildford Street Figure 22-12 Viewpoint 7 Glasgow Street Figure 22-13 Viewpoint 8 Kelburn Street Figure 22-14 Viewpoint 9 Farland Hill
Appendices
Appendix 22.1 Landscape Design and Access Statement.
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Acronyms
Acronym Acronym description
AOD Above Ordnance Datum
AoV Angle of View
CLVIA Cumulative Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
FoV Field of View
NSA National Scenic Area
SNH Scottish Natural Heritage
ZTV Zone of Theoretical Visibility
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Glossary
Glossary Term Glossary Text
Cumulative effects Additional changes caused by a proposed development in conjunction with other similar developments or as a combined effect of a set of developments, taken together’ (SNH, 2012)
Development* Any proposal that results in change to the landscape and/or visual environment.
Degree of change A combination of the scale, extent and duration of an effect also defined as ‘magnitude’.
Designated Areas of landscape identified as being of importance at international, national or Landscape* local levels, either defined by statue or identified in development plans or other documents.
Elements* Individual parts which make up the landscape, such as, for example, trees, hedges and buildings.
Enhancement* Proposals that seek to improve the landscape resource of the site and its wider setting beyond its baseline condition.
Environmental fit The relationship of a development to identified environmental opportunities and constraints in its setting.
Environmental A statutory process by which certain planned projects must be assessed before a Impact Assessment formal decision to proceed can be made. It involves the collection and (EIA) consideration of environmental information, which fulfils the assessment requirements of the EIA Directive and EIA Regulations, including the publication of an Environmental Statement.
Environmental A document reporting the findings of the EIA and produced in accordance with the Statement (ES) EIA Directive as transposed into UK law by the EIA Regulations.
Feature* Particularly prominent or eye-catching elements in the landscape such as tree clumps, church towers or wooded skylines OR a particular aspect of the project proposal.
Field of View The horizontal angle of the view illustrated in a visualisation.
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Geographical A system that captures, stores, analyses, manages and presents data linked to Information System location. It links spatial information to a digital database. (GIS)
GLVIA 3 Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Third Edition, published jointly by the Landscape Institute and Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment, 2013.
Heritage The historic environment and especially valued assets and qualities such as historic buildings and cultural traditions.
Historic Landscape Historic characterisation is the identification and interpretation of the historic Characterisation dimension of the present-day landscape or townscape within a given area. HLC (HLC) and Historic is the term used in England and Wales, HLA is the term used in Scotland. Land-use Assessment (HLA)
Indirect effects* Effects that result indirectly from the proposed project as a consequence of the direct effects, often occurring away from the site, or as a result of a sequence of interrelationships or a complex pathway. They may be separated by distance or in time from the source of the effects. Also used to describe indirect landscape effects concerning perceptual characteristics and qualities of the landscape and indirect visual effects in relation to issues such as ‘setting’.
Iterative design The process by which project design is amended and improved by successive process stages of refinement which respond to growing understanding of environmental issues.
Key characteristics Those combinations of elements which are particularly important to the current character of the landscape and help to give an area its particularly distinctive sense of place.
Land cover The surface cover of the land, usually expressed in terms of vegetation cover or lack of it. Related to but not the same as land use.
Landscape and A tool used to identify and assess the likely significance of the effects of change Visual Impact resulting from development both on the landscape as an environmental resource in its own right and on people’s views and visual amenity. Assessment (LVIA)
Landscape Character These are single unique areas which are the discrete geographical areas of a Area (LCA)* particular landscape type.
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Landscape Character The process of identifying and describing variation in the character of the Assessment landscape, and using this information to assist in managing change in the landscape. It seeks to identify and explain the unique combination of elements and features that make landscapes distinctive. The process results in the production of a Landscape Character Assessment.
Landscape Character These are distinct types of landscapes that are usually homogenous in character. Types (LCTs)* They are generic in nature in that they may occur in different areas in different parts of the country, but wherever they occur they share broadly similar combin ations of geology, topography, drainage patterns, vegetation and historical land use and settlement pattern, and perceptual and aesthetic attributes. (Topic Paper 6, Countryside Agency and SNH 2004)
Landscape capacity The ability of a landscape to accommodate different amounts of change or development of a specific type. Capacity reflects the landscape's sensitivity to the type of change, and the value attached to the landscape, and is therefore dependent on judgements about the desirability of retaining landscape characteristics and the acceptability of their loss. (http://www.snh.gov.uk/protecting-scotlands-nature/looking-after- landscapes/landscape-resource-library/glossary-of-terms/ ).
Landscape A distinct, recognisable and consistent pattern of elements in the landscape that character* makes one landscape different from another, rather than better or worse.
Landscape A process of sorting the landscape into different types using selected criteria but classification without attaching relative values to different sorts of landscape.
Landscape Components of the landscape resource such as views or mature trees recognised constraints as constraints to development. Often associated with landscape opportunities.
Landscape effects* Effects on the landscape as a resource in its own right.
An assessment of landscape effects deals with the effects of change and development on landscape as a resource. The concern here is with how the proposal will affect the elements that make up the landscape, the aesthetic and perceptual aspects of the landscape and its distinctive character. (GLVIA3 2013, Para 5.1).
Landscape fit The relationship of a development to identified landscape opportunities and constraints in its setting.
Landscape patterns Spatial distributions of landscape elements combining to form patterns, which may be distinctive, recognisable and describable e.g. hedgerows and stream patterns.
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Landscape quality A measure of the physical state of the landscape. It may include the extent to (condition)* which typical character is represented in individual areas, the intactness of the landscape and the condition of individual elements.
Landscape qualities A term used to describe the aesthetic or perceptual and intangible characteristics of the landscape such as scenic quality, tranquillity, sense of wildness or remoteness. Cultural and artistic references may also be described here.
Landscape receptors Defined aspects of the landscape resource that have the potential to be affected * by a proposal
Landscape resource The combination of elements that contribute to landscape context, character, and value.
Landscape The sensitivity of the landscape to a particular development considers the sensitivity susceptibility of the landscape and its value.
Landscape strategy The overall vision and objectives for what the landscape should be like in the future, and what is thought to be desirable for a particular landscape type or area as a whole, usually expressed in formally adopted plans and programmes or related documents.
Landscape value* The relative value that is attached to different landscapes by society. A landscape may be valued by different stakeholders for a whole variety of reasons.
Level of effect Determined through the combination of sensitivity of the receptor and the proposed magnitude of change brought about by the development.
Magnitude (of A term that combines judgements about the size and scale of the effect, the effect)* extent of the area over which it occurs, whether it is reversible or irreversible and whether it is short term or long term in duration.
The scheme consists of offshore rock armour structures which will be built in the Millport Coastal vicinity of the rock islets within Millport Bay. Onshore works will include flood Flood Protection walls, improvement works to existing coast protection structures, and works to Scheme raise the level of existing grass areas. Works on the foreshore include shore- connected rock armour breakwaters and rock armour revetments.
Mitigation Measures which are proposed to prevent, reduce and where possible offset any significant adverse effects (or to avoid, reduce and if possible remedy identified effects. (GLVIA3, 2013 Para 3.37).
Perception Combines the sensory (that we receive through our senses) with the cognitive (our knowledge and understanding gained from many sources and experiences).
Perceptual Aspects A landscape may be valued for its perceptual qualities, notably wildness and/or tranquillity. (GLVIA3, 2013 Box 5.1)
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Photomontage* A visualisation which superimposes an image of the proposed development upon a photograph or series of photographs.
Positive or Negative The landscape effects may be positive, neutral, or negative. Types of Landscape In landscape terms – a positive effect would require development to add to the landscape quality and character of an area. Neutral landscape effects would Effect include low or negligible changes that may be considered as part of the ‘normal’ landscape processes such as maintenance or harvesting activities. A negative effect may include the loss of landscape elements such as mature trees and hedgerows as part of construction leading to a reduction in the landscape quality and character of an area.
Positive or Negative The visual effects may be positive, neutral, or negative. Types of Visual In visual terms – positive or negative effects are less easy to define or quantify and require a subjective consideration of a number of factors affecting the view, Effect which may be positive, neutral, o r negative. It is not the assumption of this assessment that all change, including substantial levels of change is a negative experience. Rather this assessment has considered factors such as the visual composition of the landscape in the view together with the design and composition, which may or may not be reasonably, accommodated within the scale and character of the landscape as perceived from the receptor location.
Rarity The presence of rare elements or features in the landscape or the presence of a rare Landscape Character Type. (GLVIA3 2013, Box 5.1)
Receptor Physical landscape resource, special interest, or viewer group that will experience an effect.
Recreation Value* Evidence that the landscape is valued for recreational activity where experience of the landscape is important. (GLVIA3 2013, Box 5.1)
Representativeness* Whether the landscape contains a particular character and/or features or elements which are considered particularly important examples.
Residual effects Potential environmental effects, remaining after mitigation.
Scale Indicators Landscape elements and features of a known or recognisable scale such as houses, trees, and vehicles that may be compared to other objects, where the scale of height is less familiar, to indicate their true scale.
Scenic quality Depends upon perception and reflects the particular combination and pattern of elements in the landscape, its aesthetic qualities, its more intangible sense of place or ‘genius loci’ and other more intangible qualities. (GLVIA3 2013, Box 5.1)
Seascape Landscapes with views of the coast or seas, and coasts and adjacent marine environments with cultural, historical and archaeological links with each other.
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Sense of Place The essential character and spirit of an area: ‘genius loci’ literally means ‘spirit of (genius loci) the place’.
Sensitivity* A term applied to specific receptors, combining judgements of the susceptibility of the receptor to the specific type of change or development proposed and the value associated to that receptor.
Significance A measure of the importance or gravity of the environmental effect, defined by significance criteria specific to the environmental topic.
Significant Effects It is a requirement of the EIA Regulations to determi ne the likely significant effects of the development on the environment which should relate to the level of an effect and the type of effect. The significance of an effect gives an indication as to the degree of importance (based on the magnitude of the effect and the sensitivity of the receptor) that should be attached to the impact described. Whether or not an effect should be considered significant is not absolute and requires the application of professional judgement. Significant – ‘noteworthy, of considerable amount or effect or importance, not insignificant or negligible’. The Concise Oxford Dictionary. Those levels and types of landscape and visual effect likely to have a major or important / noteworthy or special effect of which a decision maker should take particular note.
Susceptibility* The ability of a defined landscape or visual receptor to accommodate the specific proposed development without undue negative consequences.
Sustainability* The principle that the environment should be protected in such a condition and to such a degree that ensures new development meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Temporary or Effects may be considered as temporary or permanent. permanent effects
Time depth Historical layering – the idea of landscape as a ‘palimpsest’, a much written-over asset of landscape.
Townscape The character and composition of the built environment including the buildings and the relationships between them, the different types of urban open space, including green spaces, and the relationship between buildings and open spaces.
Type or Nature of Whether an effect is direct or indirect, temporary or permanent, positive effect (beneficial), neutral or negative (adverse) solus or cumulative.
Viewpoints Selected for illustration of the visual effects fall broadly into three groups: Representative Viewpoints: selected to represent the experience of different types of visual receptor, where larger numbers of viewpoints cannot all be included
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individually and where the significant effects are unlikely to differ – for example certain points may be chosen to represent the view of users of particular public footpaths and bridleways; Specific Viewpoints: chosen because they are key and sometimes promoted viewpoints within the landscape, including for example specific local visitor attractions, such as landscapes with statutory landscape designations or viewpoints with particular cultural landscape associations. Illustrative Viewpoints: chosen specifically to demonstrate a particular effect or specific issues, which might, for example, be the restricted visibility at certain locations. (GLVIA3 2013, Para 6.19)
Visual amenity The overall views and surroundings, which provide a visual setting or backdrop to the activities of people living, working, participating in recreational activities, visiting or travelling through an area.
Visual dominance A visual effect often referred to in respect of residential properties that in relation to development would be subject to blocking of views, or reduction of light / shadowing, and high levels of visual intrusion.
Visual effect* Effects on specific views and on the general visual amenity experienced by people.
Visual Receptors* Individuals and/or defined groups of people who have the potential to be affected by a proposal.
Visual sensitivity The sensitivity of visual receptors such as residents, relative to their location and context, to visual change proposed by development.
Visualisation Computer visualisation, photomontage, or other technique to illustrate the appearance of the development from a known location.
Wireline / Wireframe A computer-generated line drawing of the DTM (digital terrain model) and the proposed development from a known location.
Zone of Theoretical A map, usually digitally produced, showing areas of land within which a Visibility (ZTV)* development is theoretical visible.
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22 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact
22.1 Introduction 1. This chapter of the Environmental Statement (ES) considers the potential impacts of the proposed Millport Coastal Flood Protection Scheme (the proposed scheme) on Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact. The SLVIA reported in this chapter has been produced by chartered landscape architects at Wood.
2. Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (SLVIA) forms one of the key components of the EIA process to comply with the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Scotland) Regulations 2017 and allows consideration of the proposed scheme against the relevant planning policies, relating to the landscape and seascape resource, and visual amenity.
3. The objective of this assessment will be to determine the landscape, seascape and visual effects of the proposed scheme on the existing landscape and seascape resource, and visual amenity. The following landscape, seascape and visual receptors have been assessed:
• Landscape and seascape character, key characteristics and elements; • Designated landscapes and seascapes; and • Views and visual amenity experienced by residents, tourists, visitors, and road and ferry users.
4. The assessment process has encompassed the construction and operation phases of the proposed scheme and has included design iteration and further assessment of the residual effects. The aim of the process has sought to achieve an acceptable compromise between sustainable design, environmental considerations and achieving an acceptable design in terms of landscape, seascape and visual effects.
5. The structures forming the proposed scheme have been designed to have a life span of at least 50 years. As the purpose of the proposed scheme is for flood protection, it is unlikely that it would be decommissioned in entirety; it is more likely that it would be repaired, or sections replaced or improved if needed in the future. Therefore, the decommissioning phase has not been included in the assessment as any replacements or improvements in the future would be similar to those effects assessed during the construction phase.
6. All figures referred to in this chapter are provided in Volume II of this ES.
7. Additional information to support the assessment of impacts on seascape, landscape and visual impacts is provided separately in the following appendices:
• Appendix 22.1 Landscape Design and Access Statement (Volume III):
22.2 Policy, Legislation and Guidance 8. There are a number of pieces of legislation applicable to the SLVIA. The following key pieces of International and UK legislation which are relevant to this chapter. Further details are provided in Chapter 2 Policy and Legislation on the following legislation.
9. The policies and plans outlined throughout this section have also been reviewed for their relevance to seascape, landscape and visual impact when undertaking the EIA for the proposed scheme.
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10. The SLVIA process has taken account of national and local planning policy in relation to the proposed scheme, as well as the Adopted North Ayrshire Council Local Development Plan (28 November 2019) Further information on planning policy is provided in Chapter 2 Policy and Legislation .
11. The SLVIA has also taken into account North Ayrshire Council’s Landscape Capacity Assessment – Arran and Cumbrae – Landscape Assessment of Potential Development Areas (2008), where relevant. It should be noted that the landscape capacity assessment largely relates to residential developments, and the landscape and seascape character types in the report have now been superseded by SNH (landscape character) in 2019 and the Firth of Clyde Forum (seascape) in 2013.
22.2.1 International Legislation and Policy 12. Table 22-1 below provides a brief summary of the key international legislation and policy relevant to the scheme.
Table 22-1 Summary of key international legislation and policy relevant to this proposed scheme
Legislation Relevance
Promotes the protection, management and planning of all landscapes, including natural, managed and urban areas as well as special and degraded landscapes. European Landscape Convention Aims to organise European co-operation on landscape issues. It is not a European Union (EU) Directive.
22.2.2 National Legislation and Policy
22.2.2.1 National Legislation 13. Table 22-2 below provides a brief summary of the key national legislation and policy relevant to the scheme.
Table 22-2 Summary of key national legislation and policy relevant to this proposed scheme Legislation Relevance
Land Reform (Scotland) Act Relates to access to the countryside as well as and Core Paths management 2003 (Amended 2016) and access
22.2.2.2 National Planning Policy National Planning Framework: 14. Scotland’s third National Planning Framework (NPF) (Scottish Government, 2014a) includes the following ambitions relevant to the marine environment at Millport, and these have been considered when undertaking the SLVIA for the proposed scheme.
15. Para 4.4 Scotland’s landscapes are spectacular, contributing to our quality of life, our national identity and the visitor economy. Landscape quality is found across Scotland and all landscapes support place-making. National Scenic Areas and National Parks attract many visitors and reinforce our international image. We also want to continue our strong protection for our wildest landscapes – wild land is a nationally important asset. Closer to settlements landscapes have an important role to play in sustaining local distinctiveness and cultural identity, and in supporting health and well-being.
16. Para 4.31 As climate change impacts on Scotland’s coastline, there will be a need to address the long-term resilience of some island and coastal communities.
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Scotland’s National Marine Plan: A Single Framework for Managing Our Seas 17. This Plan provides a comprehensive overarching framework for all marine activity in Scotland’s waters. The following policies and paragraphs have been considered when undertaking the SLVIA for the proposed scheme:
18. Policy GEN 7 Landscape / seascape: Marine planners and decision makers should ensure that development and use of the marine environment take seascape, landscape and visual impacts into account.
19. 4.27 The Scottish Government is committed to implementing the principles of the European Landscape Convention, which includes seascapes and applies an ‘all landscapes approach’ that addresses developed, altered and cultural landscapes as well as more natural scenic areas. This does not preclude development or change, but recommends that it is carried out appropriately for the area’s landscape character and visual amenity.
20. 4.29. In making these judgements, planners and decision makers should have regard to the qualities of the location in question, including any designation. More generally, the siting and design of a development should take account of the local landscape/seascape character and quality. Potential effects on landscapes and seascapes, including cumulative effects should be considered and developers should seek to minimise adverse impacts through careful planning and design, considering the services which the natural environment is providing and maximising the potential for enhancement.
21. 4.31. Existing Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) guidance on the principles of good siting and design and examples of emerging good practice should be followed. SNH Landscape Character Assessments and forthcoming SNH guidance on undertaking Coastal Character Assessment also provide useful tools in considering impacts on landscape.
Scottish Planning Policy 22. Scotland’s Planning Policy (SPP) (Scottish Government, 2014b) contains the following Policy Principles with regards to Valuing the Natural Environment and these have been taken into consideration when undertaking the EIA for the proposed scheme:
23. The planning system should:
• Facilitate positive change while maintaining and enhancing distinctive landscape character.
24. This means that policies and decisions should be guided by the following principles:
• supporting good design and the six qualities of successful places; • protecting, enhancing and promoting access to natural heritage, including green infrastructure, landscape and the wider environment;
25. With regard to areas of local landscape value, SPP states the purpose of areas of local landscape value should be to :
• safeguard and enhance the character and quality of a landscape which is important or particularly valued locally or regionally; or • promote understanding and awareness of the distinctive character and special qualities of local landscapes; or • safeguard and promote important local settings for outdoor recreation and tourism.
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26. With regard to seascape assessment, SPP states The Scottish Government is committed to implementing the principles of the European Landscape Convention, which applies an ‘all landscapes approach’ and although it does not specifically define seascape this should be taken as meaning ‘landscapes with views of the coast or sea and the adjacent marine environment with cultural, historical and archaeological links to each other.
Planning Advice Notes (PANS) 27. Planning Advice Note (PAN) 1/2013: Environmental Impact Assessment explains the role of individual planning authorities and that of the Consultation Bodies in EIA, as well as providing guidance on the ways in which EIA can be integrated into the overall development management process.
28. PAN 60: Planning for Natural Heritage provides advice on how development and the planning system can contribute to the conservation, enhancement, enjoyment and understanding of Scotland's natural environment and encourages developers and planning authorities to be positive and creative in addressing natural heritage issues. It complements the National Planning Policy Guideline on Natural Heritage (NPPG 14), with examples of good planning practice in relation to natural heritage drawn from across Scotland highlighted in a number of case studies.
National Planning Policy Guidelines (NPPG) 29. National Planning Policy Guideline (NPPG) 14: Natural Heritage gives guidance on how the Government's policies for the conservation and enhancement of Scotland's natural heritage should be reflected in land use planning. In this context, Scotland's natural heritage includes its plants and animals, its landforms and geology, and its natural beauty and amenity. Natural heritage embraces the combination and interrelationship of landform, habitat, wildlife and landscape and their capacity to provide enjoyment and inspiration. It therefore encompasses both physical attributes and aesthetic values and, given the long interaction between human communities and the land in Scotland, has important cultural and economic dimensions.
A Land Use Strategy for Scotland 2016-2021 30. The Land Use Strategy results from the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 which requires the Land Use Strategy to be reviewed every five years. With regard to development, the Land Use Strategy states that:
• e) Landscape change should be managed positively and sympathetically, considering the implications of change at a scale appropriate to the landscape in question, given that all Scotland's landscapes are important to our sense of identity and to our individual and social wellbeing. • f) Land-use decisions should be informed by an understanding of the opportunities and threats brought about by the changing climate. Greenhouse gas emissions associated with land use should be reduced and land should continue to contribute to delivering climate change adaptation and mitigation objectives.
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22.2.3 Regional Legislation and Policy Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park Strategy 2016 - 2021 31. Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park publishes a five-yearly park strategy outlining the park’s aspirations and policies. The current strategy covers the period to 2021 and states that:
• The Park Authority recognises landscape and character as unique assets that contribute to the area’s popularity and regional importance. The Park Authority will seek to maintain these assets and where possible work collaboratively to further benefit park visitors.
32. This is reflected within the Park’s Action Plan which outlines ‘Environmental Management’ as a ‘Priority Activity’ and states the objective to:
• Enhance the park’s natural heritage whilst safeguarding key species, habitats and landscape character.
22.2.4 Local Planning Policy 33. The proposed scheme falls within the North Ayrshire Council local authority boundaries.
34. North Ayrshire Council have adopted a new Local Development Plan on 28 November 2019 which covers a 20 year period, up to 2025.
35. For the purpose of the Local Plan, Millport and the footprint of the proposed scheme is categorised to be within ‘Developed Coast’.
36. The Ayrshire Joint Structure Plan ‘Growing A Sustainable Ayrshire’ (North Ayrshire Council, East Ayrshire Council and South Ayrshire Council, 2007) establishes a framework that brings together the aspirations of communities with those of business and industry, and the area’s many supporting agencies and organisations, to provide a strategic land use context to the year 2025. The Plan recognises landscape character as a key element in promoting development, providing an attractive setting for existing communities and new investment.
37. Table 22-2Table 22-3 provides details of the local planning policy documents and the relevant policies in respect to the SLVIA. These policy document have been considered when undertaking the SLVIA for the proposed scheme.
Table 22-3 Relevant local planning policies Document Policy / Guidance Policy / Guidance purpose ES Reference
The policy states: This chapter We will support development that (Section 22.6) has protects and/ or enhances our assessed the North Ayrshire landscape/seascape character, avoiding potential effects on Council Local unacceptable adverse impacts on our landscape Development Plan, Policy 15: Landscape designated and non-designated character, local November 2019 and Seascape landscape areas and features. In landscape features (North Ayrshire particular, we will consider the following: and Special Council, 2019) Landscape Areas, a) National Scenic Areas and has included Development that affects the North Arran appropriate National Scenic Area including the need mitigation measures,
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Document Policy / Guidance Policy / Guidance purpose ES Reference
to protect existing sport and recreation where required and interests, will only be supported where: is described in detail i) the objectives of the designation and in the Design the overall integrity of the area will not be Statement. compromised; or ii) any significant adverse effects on the There would be no qualities for which the area has been effects on National designated are clearly outweighed by Scenic Areas as a social, environmental or economic result of the benefits of national importance. proposed scheme.
b) Special Landscape Areas We will only support development which affects Special Landscape Areas where it would not have an unacceptable impact on their special character, qualities and setting.
Local Landscape Features Where appropriate, development should take into consideration its individual and cumulative impacts on landscape features, including: i) patterns of woodlands, fields, hedgerows and trees; ii) lochs, ponds, watercourses, wetlands, the coast and wider seascape; iii) settlement setting, including approaches to settlements; iv) the setting of green network corridors, such as important transport routes and the cycle and footpath network; v) historic, natural and recreational features of interest, skylines and hill features, including important views to, from and within them.
For all development with the potential to have an impact on either Landscape Character or Landscape features (including their setting), appropriate mitigation measures should be considered as part of any planning application. Where there is potential for development to result in significant adverse landscape/visual impact, a landscape and visual impact assessment (LVIA) will be required.
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Document Policy / Guidance Policy / Guidance purpose ES Reference
This chapter Challenge 3: To Protect and Enhance (Section 22.6) has North Ayrshire the Natural Environment by: assessed the Council …. potential effects of Environmental Conserving and enhancing the quality the proposed Policy, 2012 (North and character of the landscape; scheme on Ayrshire Council, …. landscape character 2012) Encouraging sustainable public access and recreational to and enjoyment of the outdoors. routes.
The policy states: The quality of Ayrshire’s landscape and its distinctive local characteristics shall be maintained and enhanced. In providing for new development, particular This chapter care shall be taken to conserve those (Section 22.6) has features that contribute to local assessed the distinctiveness including: potential effects of A) settings of communities and buildings the proposed within the landscape; scheme on B) patterns of woodland, fields, landscape character ENV 1 Landscape hedgerows and tree features; taking into account Quality C) special qualities of rivers, estuaries landscape quality and coasts; and other D) historic landscapes; and characteristics as Ayrshire Joint E) skylines and hill features, including defined in the 2019 Structure Plan prominent views. SNH Landscape (2014) Local plans shall seek to protect and Character enhance landscape character and Assessment. establish criteria of the assessment of future development proposals in the context of the particular local landscape type within which the development is proposed.
The assessment in The policy states: this chapter has In Sensitive Landscape Character Areas, taken into account the protection and enhancement of the ENV 2 Landscape the relevant policies landscape shall be given full Protection in the local plans as consideration in the preparation of local they relate to plans and the determination of planning landscape applications. character.
22.2.5 Best Practice and Guidance
38. The methodology for the SLVIA has been undertaken in accordance with best practice guidance including, but not limited to, the following:
• Landscape Institute and IEMA (2013). Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, 3rd Edition, hereafter referred to as GLVIA 3;
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• Landscape Institute (2019) Visual Representation of Development Proposals , Technical Guidance Note 06/19; and • Carol Anderson Landscape Associates for SNH (2018). Guidance on Coastal Character Assessment , Version 1a.
39. Other relevant guidance documents considered in the SLVIA include the following:
• Scottish Natural Heritage (2018). Coastal Character Assessment, Guidance Note, Version 1a; • North Ayrshire Council (2008). Landscape Capacity Assessment - Arran and Cumbrae, Landscape Assessment of Potential Development Areas; • North Ayrshire Council, Coastal Design Guidance; and • Scottish Natural Heritage (2019) Landscape Character Assessment.
22.3 Consultation 40. To inform the ES, North Ayrshire Council has undertaken a thorough pre-application consultation process, which has included the following key stages:
• Scoping Reports submitted to Marine Scotland and North Ayrshire Council (Royal HaskoningDHV 2017); and • Scoping Opinion received from Marine Scotland and North Ayrshire Council (2017). • Public consultation and discussions with community groups (2016-2019); and • Individual consultation meetings, undertaken specifically to inform development of the scheme proposals and the EIA process.
41. Full details of the proposed scheme consultation process to date is presented within Chapter 3 EIA Methodology and Consultation.
42. A summary of the consultation carried out at key stages throughout the proposed scheme, of particular relevance to seascape, landscape and visual impact, is presented in Table 22-4.
Table 22-4 Consultation responses Consultee Date/ Comment Response / Where Document addressed in the ES
The onshore elements of the proposed scheme have been designed to minimise visual impact through colour matching Believes that the scheme will be an the concrete to existing eyesore (the onshore elements), will lead elements, the use of wall Cumbrae 19/04/17 Scoping to traffic and ferry issues and that this will as seating and regrading Marine Report impact on the local community and soil to screen low lying tourism negatively. sections of wall. The repetition of the same materials throughout the scheme would provide visual cohesion. . Other issues are addressed in Chapter 20 Traffic and
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Consultee Date/ Comment Response / Where Document addressed in the ES
Transport and Chapter 23 Tourism and Recreation.
The harbour users expressed concern about the proposed extension of Millport Pier to form a nearshore breakwater. This option was previously preferred following The alternative proposals the initial high-level options appraisal. were fully considered as Concerns principally related to navigation part of the scheme issues, the current condition of Millport development and form Millport Community Group Pier, and the visual impact of a structure the basis for the Harbour Users Meeting, 16 th August close to the shore. proposed scheme. Group 2016 An alternative solution was suggested by Further detail is included the community, comprising an offshore in Chapter 4 Site breakwater between the Leug and the Selection and Spoig rock outcrops located offshore in Assessment of Millport Bay. Comments about this Alternatives. proposal included: the visual impact of an offshore breakwater would be less than a breakwater extension to the pier.
The first consultation and questionnaire (November/December 2016) focussed on how the seafront is used and the important aspects to be considered in development of the scheme, including visual impact.
The second consultation and questionnaire (March 2017) provided an update on the development of the scheme proposals and explored the community’s wider ambitions for the town (led by the Community November/December Council’s Tourism and Coastal Economy Details of these engagement 2016 team). Community Engagement workshops Workshops and March 2017 The third consultation and questionnaire and Associated (February 2019) updated local residents associated February 2019 Questionnaires are on progress with scheme development, questionnaires provided in Appendix 3.2. August 2019 including the findings of the Scheme Recommendation Report that was presented to North Ayrshire Council’s Cabinet. The community design workshops explored the requirements for the onshore works, including the location, appearance, landscaping and access needs for the flood walls and other structures.
The fourth consultation and questionnaire (August 2019) event updated the Millport
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Consultee Date/ Comment Response / Where Document addressed in the ES
community on the progress with the development of the scheme proposals. The aim of the questionnaire provided alongside this event was to provide a further opportunity for comment before the formal Flood Protection Scheme documents were prepared and submitted for statutory consultation and approval by the Scottish Government.
As the Community Consultation Programme has developed, feedback has been increasingly positive. The August 2019 Community Consultation was a very positive event, with good attendance. Support for the scheme proposals was again strong, building on the positive feedback previously received during the February 2019 consultation. Millport residents provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on how their comments had been taken on board in the development of the onshore elements of the scheme since the February community design workshops.
For the Cross House, the position of the flood wall in front of the property was reviewed. It was agreed that the garden wall should be replaced with a flood wall, instead of an additional wall seaward of the garden wall.
Targeted For Clyde Street, additional information Chapter 3 EIA consultation was provided about the rock revetment Methodology and meetings with proposals, including the height of the rock Consultation residents of revetment compared to the natural rock Chapter 4 Site Selection the Cross July 2019 foreshore. Further details of the rock and Assessment of House, Clyde revetment proposals (cross-sections, Alternatives Street and elevations and visualisations) were Crichton provided at the August consultation event Chapter 5 Project Street to confirm the information provided during Description the targeted meetings.
The flood protection scheme proposals for Crichton Street have been reviewed again to ensure that access to the foreshore is maintained and the height of the flood wall minimised to reduce visual impact.
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22.4 Methodology
22.4.1 Defining the Study Area 43. A Study Area of 2km radius from the proposed scheme has been established, as illustrated in Volume II Figure 22-1, after consideration of the nature and scale of the proposed scheme in relation to the existing 'host' landscape, the wider landscape and range of potential landscape, seascape and visual receptors. A further 0.5km radius detailed Study Area has also been considered to provide further clarity and greater information at a more detailed level. The level of detail for the wider and detailed Study Areas are as follows:
• 2km Radius Study Area: Provides illustration of surrounding landscape and seascape character including any nationally designated landscapes and national level recreational routes such as Scotland's Great Trails, cycle and ferry routes, and visitor attractions; and
• 0.5km Radius Detailed Study Area: Provides illustration of locally designated landscapes and locally promoted recreational routes such as Core Paths.
44. It is important to note that the boundary of the Study Area is not the limit of potential visibility of the proposed scheme. Rather it is an area, based on the scale and nature of the proposed scheme to determine a suitable Study Area which would contain all potential significant landscape, seascape and visual effects.
22.4.2 Landscape / Seascape Assessment 45. Landscape Effects are defined by the Landscape Institute in GLVIA 3, paragraphs 5.1 and 5.2 as follows:
46. “An assessment of landscape effects deals with the effects of change and development on landscape as a resource. The concern ... is with how the proposal will affect the elements that make up the landscape, the aesthetic and perceptual aspects of the landscape and its distinctive character. ... The area of landscape that should be covered in assessing landscape effects should include the site itself and the full extent of the wider landscape around it which the development may influence in a significant manner.”
47. Seascape is defined by the Landscape Institute in GLVIA 3, as follows: “Landscapes with views of the coast or seas, and coasts and the adjacent marine environment with cultural, historical and archaeological links with each other”. GLVIA 3 also states in paragraph 2.6 that “This guidance is equally applicable to all forms of landscape and does not separate townscape and seascape out for special treatment”
48. The potential landscape and seascape effects, occurring during the construction and operation phases may therefore include, but are not restricted to the following:
• Changes to landscape elements: the addition of new elements or the removal of existing elements such as trees, vegetation and buildings and other characteristic elements of the landscape character type;
• Changes to seascape elements: the addition of new elements or the removal of existing elements such as maritime influences and coastal edge character and other characteristic elements of the seascape or coastal character type;
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• Changes to landscape / seascape qualities: degradation or erosion of landscape / seascape elements and patterns and perceptual characteristics, particularly those that form key characteristic elements of landscape / seascape character types / areas or contribute to the landscape value;
• Changes to landscape / seascape character: Landscape / seascape character may be affected through the incremental effect on characteristic elements, landscape / seascape patterns and qualities (including perceptual characteristics) and the addition of new features, the magnitude of which is sufficient to alter the overall landscape / seascape character within a particular area; and
• Cumulative landscape / seascape effects: where more than one development may lead to a potential landscape / seascape effect.
49. Development may have a direct (physical) effect on the landscape / seascape as well as an indirect effect which would be perceived from the wider landscape / seascape, or other areas of landscape, outside the host landscape / seascape character type / area.
22.4.2.1 Evaluating Landscape / Seascape Sensitivity to Change 50. The sensitivity of the landscape / seascape to a particular development considers the susceptibility of the landscape / seascape and its value. The overall sensitivity is described as High, Medium, Low, or Negligible. Landscape / seascape sensitivity often varies in response to both the type of development proposed and the particular site location, such that landscape / seascape sensitivity needs to be considered on a case by case basis. This should not be confused with ‘inherent sensitivity’ where areas of the landscape / seascape may be referred to as inherently of ‘high’ or ‘low’ sensitivity. For example, a National Scenic Area (NSA) may be described as inherently of high sensitivity on account of its designation, although it may prove to be less sensitive to particular development and/or of variable sensitivity across the geographical area of the NSA. Conversely, an undesignated landscape / seascape may be of high sensitivity to a particular development regardless of the lack of local or national designation. The main factors considered are discussed as follows:
Landscape / Seascape Susceptibility 51. Landscape susceptibility according to GLVIA 3 means “the ability of the landscape to accommodate the development without undue consequences for maintenance of the baseline situation and/or the achievement of landscape planning policies and strategies”.
52. Judgements on landscape / seascape susceptibility include references to both the physical and aesthetic landscape / seascape characteristics, and the potential scope for mitigation. Landscape / seascape susceptibility varies according to different areas of landscape / seascape character. Generally speaking, lower landscape / seascape susceptibility together with lower landscape / seascape value tends to indicate lower landscape / seascape sensitivity to development. Conversely, higher landscape / seascape susceptibility and value tend to indicate higher landscape / seascape sensitivity to development.
Landscape / Seascape Value 53. This includes the consideration of a range of features which may include the presence or absence of landscape designation, landscape / seascape and scenic qualities, rarity / representativeness, conservation interests, recreational value, perceptual qualities such as tranquillity and historical or cultural associations, as set out in GLVIA 3, page 84, Box 5.1. The importance attached to a landscape / seascape, often as a basis for designation or recognition, which expresses national or local consensus, because of its quality including cultural associations, scenic or aesthetic qualities.
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Landscape / seascape value may be indicated by the presence or absence of a landscape planning designation (higher value) indicating a landscape / seascape of national or local value accordingly or an undesignated landscape / seascape (lower value).
54. The absence of a landscape planning designation should not assume an area of ‘low’ landscape value and undesignated areas of landscape / seascape are often of some local value. Indications of this are likely to be present in the form of documented, locally valued, cultural / natural heritage and scenic or aesthetic qualities such as ‘wildness’ or the presence of viewing platforms or benches. It should be noted that a landscape / seascape of high value may not always equate to areas of high landscape / seascape quality and that areas of low landscape / seascape value may contain areas of higher landscape / seascape quality. The state of repair or condition of the elements of a particular landscape / seascape, its integrity and intactness and the extent to which its distinctive character is apparent are also relevant. The quality of a landscape / seascape element or characteristic may also be influenced by the degree to which it may contribute to the overall landscape / seascape character type/area, its rarity, fragility, and potential for replacement or mitigation.
Evaluating the Magnitude of Landscape / Seascape Change 55. The ‘magnitude’ or ‘degree of change’ resulting from a particular development is described as High, Medium, Low, Negligible or None. This is assessed by considering the scale, geographical extent and duration of the proposed change, which may include the loss or addition of particular features, changes to landscape / seascape quality and changes to landscape / seascape character. As such this needs to be considered on a case by case basis. It may be possible for some mitigation measures to reduce the magnitude of change and consequently the residual landscape / seascape effects, and for these reasons the landscape design of the development should form an iterative part of the assessment process. The main factors to be considered are discussed as follows.
• Loss, Alteration, or Addition to Landscape / Seascape Elements; • Loss, Alteration, or Addition to Landscape / Seascape Characteristics / Quality; and • Change to Landscape / Seascape Character.
56. In addition to the scale or magnitude of the effect, GLVIA 3 advises that consideration should also be given to the geographical extent, and duration and reversibility of a landscape / seascape effect.
Table 22-5 Landscape / Seascape Sensitivity and Magnitude Examples of Landscape / Seascape Sensitivity
Landscape / Seascape character, characteristics, and elements where, through consideration of the landscape / seascape resource and characteristics, there would generally be no or limited High landscape / seascape capacity or scope for landscape / seascape change and higher landscape / seascape value and quality of higher susceptibility. Often includes landscapes / seascape which are nationally, internationally or regionally designated.
Landscape / seascape character, characteristics, and elements where, through consideration of the landscape / seascape resource and characteristics, there would be some landscape / Medium seascape capacity or some scope for landscape / seascape change. Often includes landscapes / seascape of medium landscape / seascape value and quality which may be locally designated or undesignated.
Landscape / seascape character, characteristics and elements where, through consideration of the landscape / seascape resource and characteristics, there would be greater landscape / seascape Low capacity or scope for landscape / seascape change to accommodate the proposed type of development as part of spatial strategy for example. Usually applies to landscapes / seascapes
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with a lower landscape susceptibility to development. May also apply to landscapes that may have been subject to intensive agriculture, blanket forestry or other man-made development.
Landscape / seascape character, characteristics and elements where there is a high landscape / seascape capacity or a planned desire for landscape / seascape change of the type proposed as Negligible part of spatial strategy for example. Usually applies to landscapes / seascapes with a lower landscape susceptibility to development. May also apply to derelict landscapes, or vacant land, areas of mineral extraction and / or land fill for example.
Examples of Landscape / Seascape Magnitude
A total or large-scale change and / or extent that may include the loss of key landscape / seascape characteristics or the addition of new uncharacteristic features or elements, that would become the High dominant characteristics of the landscape / seascape, and change the overall landscape / seascape quality, and character over a large area.
A medium-scale change of limited scale and extent including the loss of some key landscape / seascape characteristics or elements, or the addition of some new uncharacteristic features or Medium elements that would potentially change the landscape / seascape quality and character of a localised area or part of a landscape / seascape character type/area.
A low-scale change affecting small areas of landscape / seascape character and quality, including Low the loss of lower value landscape / seascape elements, or the addition of new features or elements of limited characterising influence.
None There would be no change to the receptor
22.4.3 Visual Assessment 57. Visual Effects are concerned wholly with the effect of the development on views, and the general visual amenity and are defined by the Landscape Institute in GLVIA 3, paragraphs 6.1 as follows:
58. “An assessment of visual effects deals with the effects of change and development on views available to people and their visual amenity. The concern ... is with assessing how the surroundings of individuals or groups of people may be specifically affected by changes in the context and character of views.”
59. Visual effects are identified for different receptors (people) who will experience the view(s) at their places of residence, during recreational activities, at work, or when travelling through the area. The visual effects may include the following:
• Visual effect: a change to an existing static view, sequential views, or wider visual amenity as a result of development or the loss of particular landscape / seascape elements or features already present in the view(s); and • Cumulative visual effects: the cumulative or incremental visibility of similar types of development may combine to have a cumulative visual effect.
22.4.3.1 Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) 60. A plan mapping the Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) is used to analyse the extent of theoretical visibility of the proposed scheme or part of the proposed scheme, across the Study Area and to assist with viewpoint selection. The ZTV takes into account the screening effects of buildings, localised landform and some vegetation, unless specifically noted. The ZTV provides a starting point in the assessment process and accordingly tend towards giving a ‘worst case’ or greatest calculation of the theoretical visibility.
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22.4.3.2 Viewpoint Analysis 61. Viewpoint analysis is used to assist the assessment and is conducted from selected viewpoints within the Study Area. The purpose of this is to assess both the level of visual impact for particular receptors and to help guide the design process and focus the assessment. A range of viewpoints are examined in detail and analysed to determine whether a significant visual effect would occur. By arranging the viewpoints in order of distance it is possible to define a threshold or outer geographical limit, beyond which there would be no further significant effects.
62. The assessment involves visiting the viewpoint location and viewing illustrations prepared for each viewpoint location. The fieldwork is conducted in periods of fine weather with good visibility and considers seasonal changes such as reduced leaf cover or hedgerow maintenance.
22.4.3.3 Evaluating Visual Sensitivity to Change 63. Visual effects are also assessed by considering the sensitivity of the visual receptor (people or groups of people) and the proposed magnitude of change. The sensitivity takes account of the susceptibility of the receptor and the value attached to the view. Sensitivity is assessed as High, Medium, Low and Negligible although in practice ‘negligible’ sensitivity is not used.
22.4.3.4 Visual Assessment: Susceptibility 64. The main factors to consider are the activity or occupation of the receptor at the viewpoint or receptor location and the extent to which their attention or interest may be focused on the view and visual amenity of the surrounding landscape. Whilst it is accepted that people will undertake a range of different activities, their visual experience of a development will change according to where they are, and what they are doing and susceptibility is assessed as follows:
• People at nationally recognised viewpoints (for example the Queen's View or Scott's View) people at views / vistas attached to heritage features (such as Gardens and Designed Landscapes) or other locations recognised nationally in art or literature, are assessed as of high susceptibility. Residents and people engaged in out-door recreation, where the focus of the activity is on enjoyment of the landscape and there is a high frequency of use, are also considered to be of high susceptibility; • People on local footpaths routed through undesignated, landscapes that may be of lower scenic quality, and people engaged in sport, or travelling / commuting are considered to be of less susceptibility (medium); and • People at work as the least (low) susceptibility.
22.4.3.5 Visual Assessment: Value 65. In relation to value, consideration is given to the value of the view(s) through reference to local or national scenic landscape designation. Other factors to consider include the importance or popularity of the view(s) and/or the likely numbers of viewers and the location and context of the viewpoint (in terms of the main primary or secondary views from a receptor location). The visual experience from a tourist destination, for example, could involve either the key views to or from the main attraction, or those from the car-park / service area, and this context will affect the sensitivity and value of the views. Whilst views (from car-parks / service areas) may still be experienced by receptors of inherently higher sensitivity, these types of views should not be considered of higher value or sensitivity.
66. Landmarks / tourist attractions and national trails visited and used by large numbers of people are likely to be of higher value and more sensitive than those which are less visited. Occasionally there
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may be exceptions such as motorways where, although there are higher numbers of receptors these are generally considered to be of lower value. Conversely some less well visited footpaths within Wild Land Areas for example, may be of higher value precisely because of the lower visitor numbers.
22.4.3.6 Evaluating the Magnitude of Change to the View 67. The magnitude of change is described as High, Medium, Low or Zero, and is assessed by taking into account possible changes caused by the proposed scheme, which may affect the view. In those instances where the proposed scheme would not be visible and there would be no change to the view, the magnitude has been recorded as ‘zero’ and the level of effect as ‘no view’.
68. The magnitude of visual change is described by reference to the scale of change, contracts, distance, speed of travel, angle of view, screening, background, nature of visibility, geographical extent and duration and reversibility of the proposed scheme.
69. The level of visual effect is evaluated through the combination of visual sensitivity and magnitude of change, a process assisted by the matrix in Table 22-7, which is used to guide the assessment. In those instances where there would be no change or no visibility or view of the proposed scheme, the magnitude has been recorded as ‘Zero’ and the level of effect as ‘No View’.
70. Once the level of effect has been assessed, a judgement is then made as to whether the level of effect is ‘significant’ as required by the relevant EIA Regulations. Further information is also provided about the nature of the effects (whether these would be direct / indirect, temporary / permanent / reversible, solus / cumulative, or positive, neutral or negative).
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Table 22-6 Visual Receptor Sensitivity and Magnitude Examples of Visual Sensitivity
People in residential properties or settlements and on long distance, strategic footpaths or popular footpaths and tourist destinations, viewing important landscape features, beauty spots High and picnic areas, where the activities are focused on the landscape. Receptors include residents, tourists / visitors, walkers, cyclists, and horse riders travelling through the landscape.
People within sports based recreational spaces, local and less well used footpaths or tracks. Medium Receptors include walkers, cyclists, horse riders, skiers, road users, and rail passengers travelling through the landscape.
People within non-designated landscapes of lower value or quality. Receptors are likely to Low include people at their place of work, or taking part in activities not involving an appreciation of the landscape and drivers on motorways and other busy trunk roads.
Negligible Generally, not used.
Examples of Visual Magnitude
A major change or obstruction of a view that may be directly visible, appearing as the dominant High and contrasting feature appearing in the fore or middle ground.
A prominent change or partial view of a new element within the view that may be readily Medium noticeable, directly or obliquely visible including glimpsed, partly screened or intermittent views, appearing as a prominent feature in the middle ground or background landscape.
A noticeable or small level of change, affecting a small part of the view that may be obliquely Low viewed or partly screened and/or appearing in the background landscape although noticeable. May include views experienced whilst travelling at speed.
A small or intermittent change to the view that may be obliquely viewed and mostly screened Negligible and/or appearing in the distant background or viewed at high speed over short periods and capable of being missed by the casual observer.
None There would be no change to the view.
22.4.4 Cumulative Seascape, Landscape and Visual Assessment 71. As there are no similar developments within the Study Area, a cumulative assessment has not been undertaken in this chapter. The proposed scheme is assessed as one proposed scheme.
22.4.5 Determining the Significance of Effects 72. In accordance with the relevant EIA Regulations it is important to determine whether the predicted effects, resulting from the proposed scheme, are likely to be significant. Significant landscape and visual effects are highlighted in bold in the text and in most cases, relate to all those effects that result in a ‘ Substantial ’ or a ‘ Substantial / Moderate’ effect as indicated in Table 22-7. In some circumstances, ‘Moderate’ levels of effect also have the potential, subject to the assessor’s opinion, to be considered as significant and these exceptions are also highlighted in bold and explained as part of the assessment, where they occur.
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Table 22-7 Evaluation of Landscape and Visual Effects Landscape and Visual Sensitivity
High Medium Low Negligible
Substantial / High Substantial Moderate Slight Moderate
Medium Substantial / Moderate Moderate Slight Slight / Negligible Low Moderate Slight Slight / Negligible Negligible
Negligible Slight Slight / Negligible Negligible Negligible
Zero None / No View Magnitude of Change
22.4.6 Production of ZTVs and Visualisations 73. Zones of Theoretical Visibility (ZTVs) and annotated visualisations are graphical images produced to assist and illustrate the seascape, landscape and visual assessment. The methodology used for viewpoint photography and visualisations broadly accords with the Landscape Institute (2019) Visual Representation of Development Proposals , Technical Guidance Note, which replaces the 01/11 Advice Note and 02/17 Technical Note.
22.4.6.1 Methodology for Production of ZTVs 74. The ZTV has been calculated using ReSoft Wind Farm © computer software to produce an area of potential visibility of any part of the proposed scheme. The ZTV has taken into account Ordnance Survey Digital Surface Model terrain data which takes into account-built development and some vegetation. These terrain tiles provide a digital record of the existing landform of Great Britain based on aerial photography derived 2m digital surface model height data representing the specified geometry and position of the proposed scheme. The computer model includes the central Study Area and takes account of atmospheric refraction and the Earth's curvature.
75. The resulting ZTV plot is overlaid on Ordnance Survey mapping at an appropriate scale and presented as figures using desktop publishing / graphic design software.
Methodology for Baseline Photography 76. Once a view has been selected, the location is visited, confirmed, and assessed with the aid of a wireline or similar visualisation in the field. A photographic record is taken to record the view and the details of the viewpoint location and associated data are recorded to assist in the production of visualisations and to validate their accuracy.
77. The following photographic information is recorded:
• Date, time, weather conditions and visual range; • GPS recorded 12 figure grid reference accurate to ~5-10 m; • GPS recorded Above Ordnance Datum (AOD) height data; • Use of a fixed 50 mm focal length lens is confirmed; • Horizontal field of view (in degrees); and • Bearing to Target Site.
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78. All photographs included in this assessment were recorded with a digital SLR camera set to produce photographs equivalent to that of a manual 35 mm SLR camera with a fixed 50 mm focal length lens.
79. The photography for the views was taken at high tide and therefore represent a period where there would be less visibility of some elements of the proposed scheme, most notably The Leug island is submerged in some of the views.
Methodology for Production of Annotated Visualisations 80. Each view has been annotated to show the extent or position of the proposed scheme and other existing features. The annotations of the proposed scheme are estimated to reference site features such as buildings, islands other vertical elements or plot boundaries.
81. Each view is presented as a cylindrical panorama up to 90° FoV at A1 width, as specified in the template. Except for Viewpoint 4, all other eight viewpoints include a 180° FoV (2x 90° FoV) to illustrate the full extent of the proposed scheme. Viewpoint 4 includes a 360° FoV (4 x 90° FoV) to illustrate the full extent of the proposed scheme.
Printing of Maps and Visualisations 82. All electronic visualisations and maps should be printed out and viewed at the correct scale as noted on the document.
22.4.7 Viewpoint Selection 83. Viewpoint selection was based on viewpoints identified in the Scoping Report (dated 14th March 2017) and are illustrated in Volume II Figure 22-2. As far as possible, viewpoints have been selected to represent the proposed scheme at its most visible, as experienced by a range of receptor groups, from varying directions, and over varying distances.
84. A summary of the viewpoints considered as part of the assessment, and the reason for their selection is provided in Table 22-8. Each of these locations were visited as part of the assessment process. There were found to be no views of the proposed scheme from Viewpoint 10: Glaid Stone due to intervening vegetation and landform, and this viewpoint is therefore excluded from further assessment. Similarly, there were no views of the proposed scheme from the summit of Farland Hill (Viewpoint 9) and an alternative location was found along the ridgeline to the south between Farland Hill and Craigengour Hill. In total 9 viewpoints have been illustrated and the viewpoint locations are illustrated in Volume II Figures 22-6 to 22-14.
Table 22-8 Viewpoint Locations Viewpoint Receptor Type and Comment
Viewpoint to illustrate site context and view from residential properties, local footpath, 1: Milburn Street children’s play area, visitors to West Bay, and the local road and recreational route network. Viewpoint located within the Millport Conservation Area.
Viewpoint to illustrate site context and view from residential properties, visitors to the small 2: Crichton Street bay and users of recreational routes. Viewpoint located within the Millport Conservation Area.
3: Clyde Street Viewpoint to illustrate site context and view from residential properties on Clyde Street. (rear view) Viewpoint located within the Millport Conservation Area.
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Viewpoint Receptor Type and Comment
Viewpoint from the Millport Pier, to illustrate the view from the pier along the promenade, 4: Millport Pier and the Eileans within Millport Bay, representative of views for visitors / tourists. Viewpoint located within the Millport Conservation Area.
Viewpoint on Stuart Street, to illustrate the view from residential properties along the 5: Stuart Street promenade, tourists / visitors, and the local road and recreational route network. Viewpoint located within the Millport Conservation Area.
Viewpoint on Guildford Street to illustrate the view from residential properties along the 6: Guildford Street promenade, tourists / visitors, and the local road and recreational route network. Viewpoint located within the Millport Conservation Area.
Viewpoint on Glasgow Street to illustrate the view from residential properties along the 7: Glasgow Street promenade, tourists / visitors, and the local road and recreational route network. Viewpoint located within the Millport Conservation Area.
Viewpoint on Kelburn Street to illustrate the view from residential properties along the 8: Kelburn Street promenade, tourists / visitors, and the local road and recreational route network. Viewpoint located within the Millport Conservation Area.
9: Ridge between Receptors are likely to include recreational users on a ridge between Farland Hill and Farland Hill and Craigengour Hill. Craigengour Hill
22.4.8 ZTV Analysis 85. The ZTV pattern (Volume II Figure 22-2) for the proposed scheme reflects the underlying landform within the 2km Study Area and the percentages of theoretical visibility cover (including and excluding the sea) are summarised as follows:
• Total ZTV (including the sea) coverage accounts for 36.34% of the 2km Study Area; and • Total ZTV (excluding the sea) coverage accounts for 6.6% of the 2km Study Area.
86. The ZTV shows limited onshore theoretical visibility within the 2km Study Area. This is due to the low-lying nature of the proposed scheme in combination with the surrounding built development, areas of woodland and rising landform around the bay which serve to screen the proposed scheme. The main theoretical visibility of the proposed scheme is along the Millport foreshore, coastal road, promenade, and the first row of buildings immediately facing the shore. Inland, theoretical visibility becomes patchy and is indicated on hill slopes and summits facing the bay at Aird Hill to the west, Craigengour Hill to the east and Play Hill, Terrach Hill and Gourd Hill to the north. Very patchy theoretical visibility is also indicated within the settlement away from the coastal edge. Some of these areas would be further screened by hedgerow planting and garden or roadside trees that are not picked up by the terrain data.
87. Offshore, theoretical visibility spans across the open expanse of water in the bay and beyond. In reality, visibility of low-lying features would significantly reduce with distance across the water and other features of the settlement in the maritime view such as the building massing and colour, the pier and the cathedral spire are more likely to be visible features – as well as offshore features such as the Eileans.
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22.5 Existing Environment 88. Information on the existing landscape resource or baseline conditions, included in this assessment, has been collected from local plans, OS maps, and relevant literature as well as information gathered from field surveys. This baseline information is set out as an inventory of the existing landscape resource and focuses on those landscape, seascape and visual receptors most likely to be significantly affected.
89. The baseline inventory is set out as follows:
• Baseline Landscape and Seascape Receptors; o Landscape and Seascape Character of the proposed scheme ; o Landscape Elements and Features; o Landscape and Seascape Character of the Surrounding Area; and o Landscape and Seascape Designations. • Baseline Visual Receptors; o Settlements and Residential Properties; o Transport Routes; o Recreational Routes; o Recreational and Tourist Destinations; and o Maritime receptors.
22.5.1 Baseline Landscape Receptors
90. The landscape receptors in this assessment include the landscape character types and landscape planning designations identified at a national, regional and local planning level. The landscape character of the 2km Study Area is classified within the SNH (2019) Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) and is illustrated in Volume II Figure 22-3.
22.5.1.1 Landscape Character of the Proposed Scheme 91. The 'host' landscape for the proposed scheme is defined as Landscape Character Type (LCT) 61: Coastal Fringe with Agriculture. This is an extensive LCT which occurs on the southern coasts of Arran, as well as Great and Little Cumbrae Islands.
92. The key characteristics of the host LCT as described in the SNH (2019) LCA are as follows:
• “Low lying coastal fringes; • Varied geology with a variety of sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks; • Agricultural land use with improved pasture and mixed farmland all evident; • Patterns of broadleaf woodland in this landscape closely reflecting the interplay of topography and exposure, together with human land uses; • Contrasting settlement patterns on different islands. Larger settlements within these areas have experienced considerable growth recently with suburban housing developments pushing along the coast and uphill; • Small scale rural character with a fine landscape grain. However, due to their coastal location they are quite exposed and strongly influenced by changing weather conditions; • Views tend to be open, longer distance and focused out to sea towards the mainland and surrounding peninsulas.”
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93. Within the Coastal Fringe with Agriculture LCT, Great Cumbrae is further described as: “… quite low lying, formed by small rounded hills and gently rolling landform which climbs in elevation to Barbay Hill (127 metres) the central high point of the island. …Of the Cumbraes, Great Cumbrae is larger and more settled, with much of the island given over to improved pasture and smaller areas (mainly steeper slopes) under deciduous woodland or heather moorland. … there are dramatic seaward views of Arran and Little Cumbrae from the west and south-west. It provides a key focus in views from parts of the North Ayrshire Coast.” 1
22.5.1.2 Landscape Elements and Features 94. Landscape elements and features contributing to landscape character at a localised scale in and around the proposed scheme are described below following on-site observations and desk-based research and using a combination of mapping and aerial photography.
95. Topography in this area consists of a raised platform around a deeply curved bay at approximately 5m AOD on which most of the settlement of Millport is built. Beyond the platform the landform rises relatively steeply and is wooded on the steeper slopes to the west and east of the bay. Where the landform is less steep to the north, there is some elevated residential housing nearer to the bay and agricultural fields beyond. The foreshore consists of areas of sandy beach, rocky outcrops, jetties and a pier.
96. Existing elements include a variety of man-made promenade and costal edge elements including paved walks, benches, sea walls, revetments and expansive linear grassed areas. In general terms, the area to the east of the proposed scheme is characterised by soft landscape elements such as expansive linear grassed areas. In contrast, areas to the west are characterised by hard landscape features such as sea walls, a pier, rock and man-made revetments. Towards the centre of the proposed scheme, the hard and soft landscape features merge, the expansive, open grassed elements taper and are interspersed with ‘palm trees’ ( Cordyline austrails ) near the roadside. The centre / west of the promenade is characterised by a widened area of hard paving, sea walls, benches, balustrade, the Millport Cenotaph monument, small areas of grass and crazy golf. Further west the promenade narrows next to a seawall at Guilford Street and the streetscape elements intensify around Millport pier. West of the pier is an area of dense development with narrow streets. Here the coastal edge is less open or accessible and is characterised by a combination of natural rock with abrupt vertical walls adjacent to buildings. Beyond this point, along Crichton Street and Millburn Street, the natural coastal rock formation widens, and the coastline becomes more open and visible with lower walls and balustrading around a small bay (Foul Port). Further west, there is a large open green space with children’s recreational facilities.
97. Further description of the historical aspects of Millport is found within the Millport Conservation Area Appraisal and the Millport Conservation Area Management Plan, both published by North Ayrshire Council in 2013 (North Ayrshire Council, 2013a and 2013b, respectively).
22.5.1.3 Landscape Character of the Surrounding Area 98. There are no other LCTs within the 2km Study Area in addition to the host LCT (61 - Coastal Fringe with Agriculture) described above.
1 SNH Landscape Character Assessment; Landscape Character Type 61: Coastal Fringe with Agriculture. (https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/landscape/landscape-character-assessment/scottish-landscape-character-types-map- and-descriptions).
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22.5.1.4 Landscape Designations 99. There are no nationally designated landscapes within the 2km Study Area. The National Scenic Area of Kyles of Bute and North Arran is located over 14km south-west of the proposed scheme. No landscape or visual effect is predicted at this distance, and therefore the National Scenic Area of Kyles of Bute and North Arran has not been considered any further in this assessment.
100. There are two local landscape designations within 0.5km of the proposed scheme as illustrated in Volume II Figure 22-4:
• Great Cumbrae Special Landscape Area; and • Developed Coastal Zone (around the coastal edge of Millport Bay).
101. Effects of the proposed scheme on both designations are considered in Section 22.6.6 .
102. Whilst not a landscape designation, part of the proposed scheme is located within the Millport Conservation Area. Only the landscape and visual effects of the proposed scheme on the Conservation Area are specially considered in this chapter. The Conservation Area of Millport is described in detail in the 'Millport Conservation Area Appraisal ', published by North Ayrshire Council. This document provides a general description of the settlement, the historical development of Millport, a townscape appraisal and a character assessment. Within the townscape appraisal, those areas specifically relevant to the proposed onshore flood protection works include the 'Open Space' areas below:
• “War Memorial and Crazy Golf at Guildford Street - the dignity of the Scottish Baronial Cumbrae War Memorial is undermined by the adjacency of both the Crazy golf course and the fast food van. The rocky aesthetic of the battery wall protecting the memorial and Crazy Golf course from the sea has been picked up in the flower beds; • Strathwherry jetty - historic stone jetty opposite the Garrison that was once used for mooring the revenue cutter, and in the inert war period used for pleasure and speed boat tours around the bay; • Crocodile Rock - rocky outcrop at Newtown Sands painted to resemble a crocodile's mouth by retired Glaswegian architect Robert Brown in 1913 - it has been repainted in this fashion ever since; • The Leck - stone pier amongst rocky outcrop at Newtown Sands; • Kames Bay esplanade - broad tarmac pavement to the rear of Kames Bay beach and SSSI bordered by an area of grass. There is a set of toilets at the west end of the esplanade and a shelter at the mid way point; • Marine Parade paddling pool at Kames Bay - small concrete lined interwar paddling pool at the mid-point of Marine Parade; • Play area and model boat pond at West Bay - a broad area of lawn on what is referred to as the 25 foot beach. Built into the rocky outcrop fringe to West Bay is a disused interwar concrete boating pond structure.”
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103. These features are also summarised in the 'Key Features' as:
• “Millport Bay and the Eileans - the sea ebbs and flows into the Conservation Area changing the characteristics of the bay frontage twice a day and creating a natural attractive feature of interest linking the town with the surrounding landscape and estuary; • Green Character - The large open lawns of Garrison House and the Cathedral of the Isles, the mature villa gardens, the promenade and beaches in the foreground and wooded embankment in the background, all contribute to the special character of the Conservation Area; • Landscape Setting - the high quality of the surrounding landscape contributes positively to the visual amenity of the town, providing a scenic approach and should be protected.”
104. Among the recommendations, the Millport Conservation Area Appraisal' states that: “There is a need to improve the standard of, and better co-ordinate, street surfaces, street furniture and signage in select locations throughout the Conservation area. The location that would benefit most from consideration is the Quayhead, a key urban space in the town but which suffers from poor public realm, location of street furniture and signage. It is also the place most visitors to Millport disembark from, be it by bus or via the Waverley from the Old Pier…”
105. This is reflected in North Ayrshire's 'Millport Conservation Area Management Plan' which has been adopted as Supplementary Planning Guidance and states in its strategic objectives that: “CAMP 4.0 Outline proposals for the preservation and enhancement of the wider townscape including recommendations for upgrading of the streetscape, management of existing planting, and opportunities for the reintroduction of missing features…”
22.5.2 Baseline Seascape Receptors 106. The seascape character in the Study Area has been classified by the Firth of Clyde Forum in 2010, in the Firth of Clyde Seascape Assessment, as Upper Firth of Clyde and the Cumbraes Seascape Area (updated 2013). The overall Seascape Area is extensive and covers the islands of Cumbrae, the adjacent mainland coast between Cloch Point and Farland Head, the eastern coast of Bute between Rothesay and Garroch Head and the area between Dunoon and Toward. This expansive area is further sub-divided into three smaller Coastal Character Areas (CCAs) within the 2km Study Area as follows:
• Millport; • Great or Big Cumbrae Island; and • Little Cumbrae Island.
107. The ZTV illustrates very limited visibility of the proposed scheme from the Great or Big Cumbrae Island CCA as a whole, whilst visibility from the Little Cumbrae Island CCA would be distant and would not affect the key characteristics of this character area. These areas are therefore excluded from further assessment.
108. Part of the proposed scheme is located within the Millport CCA. Effects on this character area are assessed in Section 22.6.6.
109. The key characteristics of the Millport CCA, as defined in the Firth of Clyde Seascape Assessment are described in Table 22-9.
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Table 22-9 Key Seascape / Landscape and Visual Characteristics 2 Characteristic Millport
Millport is sheltered, but the sandy beach and its rocky exposures are revealed at low tide, Maritime influences reinforcing a sense of dynamism associated with the sea. The sense of shelter is created and experience from by a few small islands called the Eileans that create a false horizon in Millport bay and by the sea Wee Cumbrae 1 km to the south.
The PS Waverley calls at Millport Pier during the summer, where fishing boats are Maritime moored. Boats moor at buoys in Millport bay, but it is not a suitable anchorage if storms development and are forecast from the south or south west. There is a small informal yacht storage yard at activity the west end of the bay.
The resort of Millport is sited on an irregular, partially rocky bay that indents the south coast of Great Cumbrae. The scattered offshore islands add to the irregularity of the coast. It is a seaside resort typical of that enjoyed by Victorian trippers going “doon the Character and watter” from Glasgow. The esplanade and promenade extend behind a sea wall with experience of the railings and steps, overlooking a series of sandy beaches separated by rocky headlands. coastline Buildings are set back from the shore, partially separated by the road and a mown grass sward. At the centre of the resort, the sea wall is replaced by fine stone pitching between the beach and pavement. There are play areas, shelters or pavilions and “the crocodile” (a painted rock sill) at the beach. Cordyline Australis trees add an exotic touch.
Millport is set in a bowl behind Millport Bay. There is one golf course, known for its Topography and land panoramic views, and a caravan site tucked away behind the town. The island rises use of hinterland steeply behind the town to enclosed grazing fields and pockets of woodland.
Millport’s cottages, colourful boarding houses, sandstone terraces and grand villas are set back from the shore. The town is established on a tight linear grid pattern which extends Settlement pattern, parallel to the coast. Large villas have the sunniest west facing sites at the east end of the built development beach. Relatively recent development is on low ground inland, out of sight of the sea. and infrastructure Millport has a stone and timber quay. Built development extends along the coast, almost merging with a hotel and associated chalets to the west at Doughend Hole.
Painted rocky exposures are a feature of Cumbrae – “the crocodile” at the beach is a local landmark. Millport’s war memorial is a Mercat cross style Valiant in strife, victors in death, Setting of landmarks by the shore. and features The slender 37m spire of the smallest cathedral in Britain, the Cathedral of the Argyll and the Isles (1851), is visible above the trees behind the shore road. “The Garrison” mansion (1819) stands apart behind the shore road.
Experience of Millport is urbanised in character, with no experience of isolated or even secluded coast. isolated Coast
The gentle bustle of this well kept and tidy resort contrasts with the peaceful tranquillity of the rest of the island, and the wide sandy beach with its sills of rock contrasts with the Aesthetic qualities rocky coast. The well known “illuminations” at Millport that mark the end of its season and are a local attraction.
Key viewpoints are all along the promenade, esplanade and at the pier which gives more Visual amenity and panoramic views. The tilted terraces, Castle, Old and New Lighthouses of Little Cumbrae key Viewpoints island, together with the serrated skyline of the Isle of Arran, are significant features in views from the bay, as is the development at Hunterston.
2 Firth of Clyde Seascape Assessment: Section 7 Upper Firth of Clyde & the Cumbraes (2010) page 42.
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110. More specifically, Section 7.10 of the report describes Millport: “The town of Millport on Great Cumbrae is tucked into to the tight curve of a south facing bay enclosed by two headlands overlooking a number of small islands. The shore is a series of sandy beaches, separated by low rocky sills and promontories, and the typical promenade of a resort with a large number of ‘dedicated seats’. Islands in the bay, together with Wee Cumbrae close by, create shelter. The town is a popular holiday resort known for its illuminations.” 3
22.5.3 Baseline Visual Receptors 111. The visual assessment includes those receptors that are overlapped by the ZTV illustrated in Figure 22-5. The objective of the visual assessment is to assess the potential visual effects on views and visual amenity, which are likely to be experienced by receptors (people) within the landscape, as follows:
• Views from residential properties and settlements; • Views experienced whilst travelling through the landscape (road users, walkers, horse riders and cyclists for example) and seascape (ferry users, anglers for example); and • Views from tourist and recreational destinations.
112. The ZTV highlights all those areas and receptor locations within the 2km Study Area where the proposed scheme would be theoretically visible. Nonetheless, the ZTV forms the starting point for the assessment and the establishment of the baseline visual receptor locations which are to be included in the assessment.
113. The ZTV and viewpoint analysis indicates that the assessment should be focused on a detailed Study Area of 0.5km from the proposed scheme. Taking a precautionary approach, and drawing from best practice guidance, the visual assessment has been focused on all local receptors (settlements, roads and local recreational routes) within 0.5km. Other receptors within the wider 2km Study Area in the assessment include receptors of regional or national importance such as Sustrans Cycle Routes, long distance footpaths and well-known tourist / recreational destinations that are overlapped by the ZTV.
22.5.3.1 Settlements 114. Millport is the only settlement within 0.5km and is included in the assessment. The assessment of visual effects likely to be experienced from this settlement includes consideration of residential areas (including local roads within the settlement), the public realm and public open spaces within the settlement boundaries that would be frequented by people.
22.5.3.2 Transport Routes 115. The visual assessment considers the potential visual effects likely to be experienced by people travelling through the landscape. Routes that are overlapped by the ZTV within 0.5km of the proposed scheme have been assessed as comprising:
• B896 which circuits the island.
116. Other roads within the Study Area including the B899 and minor roads between Millport and Barbay Hill are either outwith the ZTV or have very limited visibility of the proposed scheme and are therefore excluded from further assessment.
3 Firth of Clyde Seascape Assessment: Section 7 Upper Firth of Clyde & the Cumbraes (2010) page 41.
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22.5.3.3 Recreational Routes 117. The visual assessment has considered the potential visual effects likely to be experienced by people (walkers / cyclists / horse riders / and others) on recreational routes within the Study Area as illustrated in Figure 22-5.
22.5.3.4 National Recreational Routes 118. There are no national recreational routes within the 2km Study Area.
22.5.3.5 Local Recreational Routes 119. There are a number of locally promoted routes within 0.5km of the proposed scheme that are overlapped by the ZTV, as illustrated in Figure 22-5.
• Cumbrae Cycle Route 1 (partly overlapped by Core Paths NC1, NC1a, NC2, NC77, NC74 and NC82);
• Inner Circle Walk (partly overlapped by Cumbrae Cycle Routes 1 and 2 and Core Paths NC2 and NC86);
• Farland Point Walk (partly overlapped by Cumbrae Cycle Route 1, Core Paths NC1, NC1a, NC2, NC41, NC77 and NC82, and Inner Circle Walk); and
• Fintry Bay Walk (partly overlapped by Cumbrae Cycle Route 1, Core Paths NC1, NC74 and Targets Walk).
120. The remaining routes including Cumbrae Cycle Route 2, Core Paths NC44 and NC86 are either outwith the ZTV or would have very limited visibility of the proposed scheme and are therefore excluded from further assessment.
22.5.3.6 Recreational & Tourist Destinations 121. The promenade of Millport is the main tourist attraction on the island, with many local attractions and access to sandy bays.
122. Other key tourist attractions overlapped by the ZTV include Crocodile Rock on the foreshore and rocky outcrops of Newtown Bay. The remaining attractions are either outwith the ZTV or would have no visibility of the proposed scheme and are therefore excluded from further assessment.
22.5.3.7 Ferry / Sailing Routes 123. The main route to the island is the ferry from Largs to the north-east of the island. There are no views of the proposed scheme from this ferry route and is therefore excluded from further assessment.
124. The Paddle Steamer Waverley (P.S. Waverley) ferries passengers to Cumbrae on a seasonal basis. At the time of writing, this vessel was out of service for repair but historically the service ferried passengers from various locations including Glasgow, Largs and Ayr to the pier in Millport bay. More recent crossings have been to Keppel Pier to the south-east of Millport. This route has been considered in the assessment as a precaution.
125. Private yachts and other small vessels are also used recreationally in the waters around Millport Bay. Users of these receptors are also considered in the assessment.
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22.6 Impact Assessment
22.6.1 Overview of Potential Impacts 126. Following the methodology presented in Section 22.4 above, the impacts associated with the landscape, seascape and visual receptors described in Section 22.5 have been assessed and are presented in this section. Where measures over and above the embedded mitigation described in Section 22.6.2 are required to avoid, reduce, remedy/compensate or enhance the adverse impacts of the proposed scheme, this information has been provided.
22.6.2 Embedded Mitigation
22.6.3 Landscape Design Considerations 127. The landscape design and evolution of the proposed scheme has been presented here as an overview of the ‘landscape design considerations’ which should be read in conjunction with Chapter 4 Site Selection and Assessment of Alternatives and the Design Statement which is provided as Appendix 22.1, which set out the design evolution from a wider environmental and technical perspective.
22.6.3.1 Design Considerations in relation to Guidance for Development in Millport 128. The opportunities and design guidance for development in the Firth of Clyde Seascape Assessment, Section 7: Upper Firth of Clyde & The Cumbraes (2010) have been reviewed and considered in the design evolution and assessment process of the proposed scheme as set out in Table 22-10.
Table 22-10 Consideration of Design Opportunities Opportunities and Design Guidance Design Consideration of the proposed scheme
There is a risk that additional land The proposed scheme would add low-lying linear elements into the based development will add ribbon existing streetscape along the promenade and would upgrade existing development to Millport, therefore size, sea-defence walls. These elements are designed to be unobtrusive and massing, design and setting of any to blend with the existing streetscape elements. Care will be taken with additional development should aim to colour and materials to ensure that they blend with existing features. work closely with established patterns These elements would not add to the existing urban massing in Millport. of development
Development should be resisted Visibility and views have been a key consideration in the development of between the road and the coast the proposed scheme. The design seeks to reduce the visual effects of wherever possible, to limit impacts on new wall elements in views from the road by raising the level of open views of the sea grassland between them and the road to screen them, where possible. Linear walls are also designed to function as seating elements where possible to further integrate and provide familiar elements into the views.
Views to the Eileans in the bay, to Little The low-lying nature of the proposed walls and terraces mean that they Cumbrae, and to Arran, are a particular do not affect existing views towards the Eileans, to Little Cumbrae, and feature of this stretch of coast, and Arran. The walls are also designed to act as seating elements to should be considered in the siting of off encourage the enjoyment of the views. The proposed offshore shore structures breakwater is also designed using natural rock which would emulate existing rock features offshore such as the Spoig, the Leug and other rock outcrops.
It is important to restore, maintain, The ethos of the proposed scheme is to restore and maintain existing enhance and upgrade where elements where possible and to enhance them to further protect Millport necessary, the quality of the built from flood events. This is particularly the case with the refurbishment of structures and infrastructure – including the existing concrete crest wall along Stuart Street and the enhancement
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Opportunities and Design Guidance Design Consideration of the proposed scheme paving, railings, street furniture, and the of existing sea walls along West Bay Road and Marine Parade. In some paddling pool and boating pond – and places existing features such as benches would be replaced by linear the distinctive planting, such as the seating that also acts as flood wall. The Cordyline trees would be cordyline trees, to consolidate the retained in the design and there are proposals to add further trees to impression of a high quality resort and further enhance these existing features. Overall the impression of a high ‘seaside’ atmosphere quality resort and ‘seaside atmosphere’ would be retained and enhanced.
Care should be taken to avoid adding The proposed scheme is designed to minimise visual clutter with the additional clutter or fragmenting the introduction of linear elements that integrate with existing features. The grass frontage to allow the promenade repetition of these elements around the bay provide a sense of unity and and the grass frontage to dominate and continuity. unify the front.
22.6.4 Elements of the Proposed Scheme 129. A summary of the elements of the proposed scheme is provided below with the complete project description of the proposed scheme provided in Chapter 5 Project Description .
• Proposed Onshore Flood Protection Works: o Improvements to existing sea walls including seating; o Flood walls; o Increased ground levels to include grassed areas; o Stepped revetments doubling as terraced seating; o Improvements to other defence structures; and o Works on the foreshore including a shore connected rock armour breakwater and rock armour revetment.
• Proposed Offshore Flood Protection Works: o Offshore breakwater.
22.6.5 Mitigation during the Construction Period 130. The total construction period (for any of the options) is estimated to be up to 21 months, commencing in Autumn 2021. Ongoing consultation would seek to minimise the disruption caused to the local community through noise, traffic, air quality and tourism activities during the construction process. Specific construction effects are likely to be:
• Barge delivery of materials required for construction of the offshore works, to help minimise the effects of use of Largs ferry and delivery vehicles on the B896 / B899; • Dredging and dredged material removal, if required, with options to reuse dredged materials locally being explored to avoid potential landscape / seascape effects elsewhere; • Excavation of the existing footpath along Marine Parade and West Bay Road would require fencing, a site compound for the construction plant and materials. Road closures would be minimised to reduce disruption; • Flood walls would be constructed from reinforced concrete. The concrete would be coloured based on samples of the local beach material this would integrate the walls with existing landscape and seascape elements; • Proposed flood walls are designed to be used as seating where possible to integrate them into the townscape;
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• A search would be undertaken for existing buried services in the working footprint and if necessary, services would be diverted to minimise potential extended disruption; • Between Clifton Street and College Street – excavation of paved area width of 2m is expected to be required. Some footpath excavation and reinstatement would be required as part of the construction activities. An additional working area of up to 5m either side of the wall may be required by construction vehicles. It is expected that the construction of this flood wall would be undertaken within the existing footpath. Closure of the adjacent road may be necessary on occasions, but would be minimised; • Glasgow Street (Crocodile Jetty to Kelburn Street - Cross House) - Potential breakout of bedrock at Cross House, excavation and reinstatement of the promenade around proposed wall. An additional working area of up to 5m either side of the wall may be required by construction vehicles. Construction of the flood wall in this area is unlikely to require road closures; • Crichton Street - The flood wall would be founded on top of the exposed natural rock. This may require excavation of parts of the existing masonry revetment. Excavation and reinstatement of the footpath would also be required. An additional working area of up to 5m either side of the wall may be required by construction vehicles, therefore road closures would be required during the construction works along Crichton Street; • Increase ground levels - All activities would be undertaken from land. It is unlikely that road closures would be needed for these works, although access along footpaths may be restricted at times. Materials for the ground raising works would be delivered by barge to minimise disruption on roads and on the Largs ferry. Fencing would be erected around the works area, and a site compound would be required for storage of plant and materials; • Revetment works - Construction activities would be undertaken from the landward and seaward side of the existing coast protection structures. These improvement works may require excavation of the beach adjacent to the existing structures, to a depth of up to 2m over a width of up to 5m. Some footpath excavation and reinstatement would also be required as part of the construction process. Fencing would be erected around the works area, and a site compound will be required for storage of plant and materials; • Shore connected rock armour breakwater - The rock for the breakwaters would be delivered by sea. This would reduce the potential impact on local roads and the Largs ferry route. A fenced site compound would be required for the construction plant and materials; and • Construction working hours would be based on core working hours (08:00 hrs to 18:00hrs, Saturday – 08:00 hrs to 13:00hrs). This would minimise local visual disruption and potential visual impact from night time lighting (although it is acknowledged that whilst unlikely, there may need to be short periods of night working for the offshore construction works, e.g. to minimise risks associated with expected bad weather).
22.6.6 Residual Landscape Effects 131. As described in the Methodology in Section 22.4, landscape effects are assessed by considering the landscape sensitivity (value and susceptibility) against the magnitude of change. The parts of the proposed scheme that are likely to affect landscape character and landscape designations would be the proposed onshore flood protection works. The proposed offshore flood protection works are unlikely to affect landscape character or designations but may affect seascape character which is assessed further below.
132. The residual landscape effects assessed here are those effects remaining after all of the embedded design mitigation and enhancement measures referred to in Section 22.6 have been taken into account.
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22.6.6.1 Effects on Landscape Elements and Landscape Character 133. Landscape character within the Study Area is illustrated in Figure 22-3. The 'host' landscape for the proposed onshore flood protection works is an extensive area of Coastal Fringe with Agriculture LCT which extends across the Greater Cumbrae, Little Cumbrae, and the southern part of Arran.
Landscape Sensitivity of the Proposed Onshore Flood Protection Works on the Coastal Fringe with Agriculture LCT 134. The landscape assessment has been undertaken in accordance with GLVIA 3 and the methodology, Section 22.4 and glossary. The glossary defines the terms landscape sensitivity and capacity as follows:
• "Landscape Sensitivity: The sensitivity of the landscape to a particular development considers the susceptibility of the landscape and its value; and • Landscape Capacity: The ability of a landscape to accommodate different amounts of change or development of a specific type. Capacity reflects the landscape's sensitivity to the type of change, and the value attached to the landscape, and is therefore dependent on judgements about the desirability of retaining landscape characteristics and the acceptability of their loss."
135. The value of the local landscape elements and the Coastal Fringe with Agriculture LCT within the 2km Study Area is Medium to High, reflecting the Great Cumbrae SLA, Millport Conservation Area and Coastal Zone designations that partly overlap with the LCT. The susceptibility to change from the proposed onshore flood protection works of the proposed scheme is assessed as Low since the works would be of relatively small scale across the overall LCT and would not introduce large scale, unfamiliar elements. The sensitivity to change is therefore assessed as Medium to Low.
Magnitude and Level of Effect on Landscape Elements and the Coastal Fringe with Agriculture LCT During Construction 136. The construction phase would result in localised, direct landscape effects on the landscape character of the proposed onshore flood protection works and its component landscape elements.
137. Table 22-11 provides an assessment of the level and type of landscape effect predicted in respect of each construction activity.
Table 22-11 Construction Effects (Landscape) of the Proposed Onshore Flood Protection Works Proposed Works Assessment Sea Walls / Sea Wall The construction and refurbishment of the proposed linear sea walls, sea wall seating, Seating, Terrace terraced seating and increased level of existing grassed areas would affect relatively Seating and small strips of the overall Coastal Fringe with Agriculture LCT. Localised areas would Increased Ground be closed for construction and there would be fencing, earthworks, construction plant Levels and delivery vehicles. There would be some alterations and additions to the existing elements such as linear walls that would double as seating and a re-grading of grassed areas. The magnitude of change would range from High at the start of construction, reducing to Low-Negligible towards the end of construction as re-seeding establishes, such that the level of effect on landscape elements (paving, benches and grassland) would range from Substantial / Moderate and Significant to Slight and Negligible and Not Significant.
In terms of landscape character, the construction activity would only affect a very small area of landscape character along Millport Bay. The magnitude of change would range from High during peak construction through to Zero at the end of the construction period. The effects would therefore range from Substantial / Moderate and Significant
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Proposed Works Assessment to Negligible and Not Significant. The nature of these effects would be temporary, direct and negative.
Shore Connected The effects of the shore connected rock armour breakwater, rock revetment and Rock Armour Offshore Breakwater on landscape elements and landscape character would be Breakwater, Rock Negligible and Not Significant (Negligible magnitude) and would involve disturbance of Revetment and existing elements due to delivery of materials and visibility in views out from the bay. Offshore Breakwater The effects on seascape and visual receptors is considered below in Sections 22.6.7 and 22.6.8.
Magnitude and Level of Effect on Landscape Elements and the Coastal Fringe with Agriculture LCT During Operation 138. The main landscape elements affected by the proposed onshore flood protection works are the expansive grass elements which would be reformed / re-graded to increase the ground levels and would include, in places, sections of linear seating acting as a flood defence wall or terraced seating at the seaward side. There would also be changes to the areas of the foreshore where terraced seating would be introduced and existing seawalls are refaced or upgraded with a low increase in height. Although some of the elements would change, there would not be an overall change in the use or perception of the promenade area and an overall enhancement of seating and paved areas along the promenade. This would result in an overall Medium magnitude of change and a Moderate and Not Significant effect. The nature of these effects would be permanent, direct, and neutral to positive.
Magnitude and Level of Effect: Coastal Fringe with Agriculture LCT During Operation 139. At the end of the construction period and during operation, the proposed onshore flood protection works would gain a more ‘settled’ appearance when compared to the same area at the start and during the construction period.
140. The proposed onshore flood protection works would introduce slight alterations to landform and linear seating in a small area of the overall LCT. These alterations would be low lying and would not change the character of the area or affect any of the key characteristics of the Coastal Fringe with Agriculture LCT either locally or overall. The changes in the landscape would mainly be visible at close proximity and would range from Low to Negligible magnitude of change to Zero in the wider LCT area. The landscape character effects on the Coastal Fringe with Agriculture LCT (Medium to Low landscape sensitivity) would range from Slight to Slight / Negligible and Not Significant within close proximity to Negligible to None and Not Significant in the wider area of the Coastal Fringe with Agriculture LCT. The nature of these effects would be permanent, direct, and neutral to positive.
22.6.6.2 Effects on Landscape Designations Great Cumbrae Special Landscape Area (SLA) 141. The Great Cumbrae SLA covers the island of Great Cumbrae with the exception of the urban settlement of Millport. The SLA covers a variety of localised features both inland and along the coastal fringe and seascape and includes elevated parts of the Eileans. The SLA starts at the urban edge of the settlement of Millport and at its closest point would be within approximately 100m of the proposed onshore flood protection works on the rising landform to the eastern and western edges of Millport Bay. The proposed scheme would also introduce an offshore breakwater, which would terminate at the southern Eilean island. The SLA designation is illustrated in Figure 22-4. No details of the special or valued qualities of the Great Cumbrae as a Special Landscape Area were available at the time of assessment.
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142. As a local landscape designation, not of the highest or national level, the value of the SLA is High to Medium and the susceptibility of change to the proposed onshore flood protection works is assessed as Low. The overall sensitivity is therefore assessed as Medium.
143. There would be no direct landscape effects arising from the proposed onshore flood protection works on the SLA. The ZTV coverage of this area is partly fragmented and largely focused on hill slopes surrounding the settlement of Millport and on the offshore island of the Eileans. The magnitude of change on the Great Cumbrae SLA would therefore be Low to Zero. The majority of the SLA lies outwith the ZTV and is some distance from the proposed onshore flood protection works. The effect on the Great Cumbrae SLA would therefore be Slight to None and Not Significant. The nature of these effects would be permanent, indirect and neutral.
Millport Conservation Area 144. Although the Millport Conservation Area designation relates to the cultural heritage of Millport, it also describes ‘Key Features’ and ‘Open Elements’ which highlight scenic townscape qualities. The value of the Conservation Area is High. The susceptibility of change to the proposed onshore flood protection works is assessed as Low. The overall sensitivity is therefore assessed as High-Medium.
145. The setting of the Millport Conservation Area is assessed in Chapter 15 Archaeology and Cultural Heritage . The landscape and visual effects on the relevant 'Open Space' elements and 'Key Features' of the Conservation Area are addressed below.
• War Memorial (Millport Cenotaph) and Crazy Golf at Guildford Street . Parts of the proposed scheme would be visible from this area of the promenade. There would be no direct effects. The magnitude of change would be Low; • Strathwherry jetty . Parts of the proposed scheme would be visible from this area of the promenade. There would be no direct effects. The magnitude of change would be Low; • Crocodile Rock . There would be no direct effects. The magnitude of change would be Low to Negligible; • The Leck . There would be upgrades and repair to the jetties at either side of The Leck. There would be no direct effects. The magnitude of change would be Low to Negligible; • Kames Bay esplanade . This area would be enhanced as part of the proposed scheme. There would be an increase in ground level in this area such that the area of grassland would be re- graded near to the coastal edge and stepped revetments acting as terraced seating would be added. This would not change the character of the area or the use of the promenade in this location and the magnitude of change would be Low; • Marine Parade paddling pool at Kames Bay . Parts of the proposed scheme would be visible from this area. There would be no direct effects. The magnitude of change would be Negligible; • Play area and model boat pond at West Bay . Parts of the proposed scheme would be visible from this area. There would be no direct effects. The magnitude of change would be Negligible; • Millport Bay and the Eileans – There would be No Change to the main characteristic of the sea ebbing and flowing into the Conservation Area. The magnitude of change would be Negligible; • Green Character - The proposed scheme would introduce elements to the promenade including sections of low-lying flood wall that would double as seating. Some of the flood wall would be on the seaward side of a slight increase in ground level where it adjoins open grassland. Stepped revetments would also act as areas of terraced seating onto the foreshore in some locations. The magnitude of change would be Low; and • Landscape Setting - The proposed scheme would continue to introduce high-quality elements to the promenade and retain and enhance the visual amenity of the town and its scenic approach. The magnitude of change would be Low.
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146. It is noted that within the recommendations, the ‘Millport Conservation Area Appraisal' states that: “There is a need to improve the standard of, and better co-ordinate, street surfaces, street furniture and signage in select locations throughout the Conservation area…”
147. The proposed scheme addresses this recommendation with increased cohesion of elements across the middle and eastern edges of the bay and the area around Foul Port to the west of the bay.
148. In summary, the magnitude of change on the ‘Open Space’ elements and ‘Key Features’ of the Conservation Area would be Low to Negligible, to Zero resulting in an overall Slight and Not Significant effect. The nature of these effects would be permanent, indirect, and neutral to positive.
Coastal Zone 149. The proposed scheme is located within the ‘Developed’ Coastal Zone which is guided by the Coastal Design Guidance published by North Ayrshire Council. The design of the proposed scheme has taken the recommended design solutions from this guidance into account, as described in Chapter 4 Site Selection and Alternatives , Chapter 5 Project Description and the Appendix 22.1 Landscape Design and Access Statement.
150. The designated area of the ‘Developed’ Coastal Zone overlaps with the same boundary and features as the Millport Coastal Character Area and is therefore assessed as part of the CCA below in Section 22.6.
22.6.7 Residual Seascape Effects 151. As described in the Methodology in Section 22.2, seascape effects are assessed by considering the seascape sensitivity (value and susceptibility) against the magnitude of change. The parts of the proposed scheme that are likely to affect seascape character include both the proposed onshore flood protection works and the proposed offshore flood protection works.
152. The residual seascape effects assessed here are those effects remaining after all of the embedded design mitigation and enhancement measures referred to in Section 22.4 have been taken into account.
22.6.7.1 Effects on Seascape Character 153. Seascape character within the Study Area is illustrated in Figure 22-3. As described in Section 22.5, Millport CCA is considered in the assessment below.
Seascape Sensitivity of the Proposed Scheme on the Millport Coastal Character Area 154. The seascape assessment has been undertaken in accordance with GLVIA 3 and the SNH Guidance Note: Coastal Character Assessment (2018). The SNH Guidance states that: “The process of coastal character assessment is similar to that for landscape character assessment…
155. The process of coastal character assessment is principally concerned with identifying, recording and describing the baseline landscape and visual conditions. Making judgments, for example on coastal sensitivity or the significance of any change to the baseline is a separate task.”
156. The GLVIA 3 glossary defines the term ‘sensitivity’ as follows: “Sensitivity: A term applied to specific receptors, combining judgements of the susceptibility of the receptor to the specific type of change or development proposed and the value of that receptor.”
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157. The value of the Millport CCA within the 2km Study Area is Medium to High, reflecting the Great Cumbrae SLA, Millport Conservation Area and Coastal Zone designations. The susceptibility to change from the proposed scheme is assessed as Medium to Low since the proposed scheme would not introduce unfamiliar onshore and foreshore elements but would introduce new elements into parts of the offshore seascape. The sensitivity to change is therefore assessed as Medium.
Magnitude and Level of Effect on the Millport CCA During Construction 158. The main characteristics affected by the proposed scheme on the Millport CCA would be the maritime experience from the sea where various elements of the proposed construction works would be visible, albeit in the context of an often-busy townscape.
159. The proposed shore connected rock breakwater and rock revetment be constructed using a raised platform from the beach and would be a visible element near to the shore. The magnitude of change on these elements would be High. This would result in a Substantial / Moderate and Not Significant effect.
160. Construction activity associated with the proposed offshore breakwater is expected to include dredging vessels, delivery barges and restricted access to this area of the bay. These would introduce direct effects and would be the most visible elements from this CCA, influencing the maritime experience in this part of the bay. The magnitude of change would be High in relation to maritime activity resulting in a Substantial / Moderate and Significant effect.
161. The character and experience of the coastline would be influenced by the introduction of new linear flood walls which would double as seating elements, stepped revetments which would double as terraced seating. Increased ground levels would integrate the flood walls in places and would be most visible from the promenade. During construction, areas of the promenade and foreshore would be closed with fencing, and there would be earthworks and construction vehicles and activity. There would be newly grassed areas following construction and a period of time before the establishment of vegetation. Existing sea walls would be increased in height around Foul Port and Marine Parade. Construction activity would be in the context of a busy urban area with existing vehicular and pedestrian activity. There would be some road closures and some footpath excavation which would restrict access in places. The magnitude of change would range from High at the start of construction, reducing to Low towards the end of construction, such that the level of effect on the character and experience of the coastline would be Substantial / Moderate and Significant to Slight and Not Significant.
162. Construction activity near landmarks and features would be minimal. Access to the majority of the features would be unaffected during the works, the exception would be the Crocodile Rock where access may be restricted for short periods due to construction works to the foreshore. The overall magnitude of change would be Low to Negligible resulting in a Slight to Negligible and Not Significant effect.
163. The nature of these effects on the Millport CCA would be temporary, direct, and negative to neutral during construction.
164. There would be no construction effects on the other key characteristics of the Millport CCA including the Maritime development and activity, topography and land use of hinterland, settlement pattern, experience of isolated coast and the aesthetic qualities.
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Magnitude and Level of Effect on the Millport CCA During Operation 165. The effects of the proposed scheme on the Millport CCA have been considered in relation to each of the key characteristics in Table 22-12.
Table 22-12 Consideration of proposed scheme against key characteristics of the Millport CCA. Characteristic Assessment Magnitude of Change Maritime The proposed scheme would add rock armour revetments to a Low (proposed onshore influences and small area of the exposed rock at Bessy’s Port. There would flood protection works) experience from also be a shore connected rock armour breakwater to the west High (proposed offshore the sea of the revetment and a proposed offshore breakwater between flood protection works) the Leug, the Spoig and the southern island of the Eileans.
Maritime There would be no change to the maritime development and Negligible development and activity as a result of the proposed scheme. activity
Character and The proposed scheme would introduce some new low lying Low experience of the elements to the esplanade and promenade comprising new coastline linear flood walls which would double as seating elements, stepped revetments which would double as terraced seating, increased ground levels and increased height of existing sea walls to the west and east of Millport Bay. Rock armour revetments would also be visible in areas to the west of the bay and a shore connected rock armour breakwater would also be introduced in this area. The promenade, beaches, rock headlands and other features on the coastline would remain unchanged.
Topography and There would be no change to the topography and land use of Negligible land use of the hinterland as a result of the proposed scheme. hinterland
Settlement There would be no change to the settlement pattern and built Negligible pattern, built infrastructure as a result of the proposed scheme. development and infrastructure
Setting of There would be no change to the setting of landmarks and Low to Negligible landmarks and features from the introduction of the proposed scheme. The features introduction of a linear flood wall / seating to the east and refacing of an existing wall to the west may have a slight influence on the setting of the Millport Cenotaph.
Experience of There would be no change to the experience of isolated coast Negligible isolated Coast as a result of the proposed scheme.
Aesthetic There would be no change to the aesthetic qualities as a Negligible qualities result of the proposed scheme.
Visual amenity Whilst the proposed offshore breakwater would be visible in Low to Negligible and key some views, particularly at low tide, there would be no Viewpoints change to the panoramic views experienced from the key viewpoints as a result of the proposed scheme. The tilted terraces, Castle, Old and New Lighthouses of Little Cumbrae island, together with the serrated skyline of the Isle of Arran
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Characteristic Assessment Magnitude of Change would be unaffected by the proposed scheme as illustrated in viewpoints 1-9, Figures 22-6 to 22-14.
166. As assessed in Table 22-8, the main characteristics affected by the proposed scheme would be the maritime experience from the sea, where various elements of the proposed onshore and offshore flood protection works would be visible, albeit in the context of an often busy townscape. These would include onshore works such as linear flood walls which would double as seating elements, stepped revetments which would double as terraced seating, increased ground levels and increased height of existing sea walls to the west and east of Millport Bay. Rock armour revetments would also be visible in areas to the west of the bay and a shore connected rock armour breakwater would also be introduced in this area. The magnitude of change from these elements would be Low to Negligible, to Zero resulting in a Slight to None and Not Significant effect. The nature of these effects would be permanent, indirect, and neutral. The proposed offshore breakwater would be most visible from this area and maritime activity around the Eileans, The Spoig and The Leug would be affected. The magnitude of change would be High in relation to maritime activity, resulting in a Substantial / Moderate and Significant effect.
167. The character and experience of the coastline would be influenced by the introduction of new linear flood walls which would double as seating elements, stepped revetments which would double as terraced seating and increased ground levels which would accommodate the flood walls on the seaward side of grassed areas. This would not change the character of the area which would still retain the “ esplanade and promenade … series of sandy beaches separated by rocky headlands… buildings set back from the shore, partially separated by the road…mown grass sward…play areas, shelters or pavilions and “the crocodile ”’. It is anticipated that the proposed new elements would improve the quality of the environment and provide a sense of cohesion to the experience of the area. The magnitude of change would be Low resulting in a Moderate / Slight and Not Significant effect.
168. The proposed scheme would be visible from landmarks and features and would provide some of the indirect visual context to them. The magnitude of change would be Low to Negligible resulting in a Slight to Negligible and Not Significant effect.
169. It is anticipated that the effects on the visual amenity and key viewpoints of the Millport CCA would not be compromised by the proposed scheme. The proposed offshore breakwater would be visible in some views but would not alter the main features of the views from the bay. The magnitude of change would be Low to Negligible resulting in a Slight to Negligible and Not Significant effect.
170. The nature of these effects on the Millport CCA would be permanent, direct, and neutral to positive.
171. In summary, whilst there would be significant effects in relation to maritime activity due to the proposed offshore breakwater, effects on the majority of seascape characteristics result in either Slight or Negligible effects, resulting in positive changes from the introduction of increased seating, foreshore access and cohesion.
22.6.8 Residual Visual Effects 172. Visual effects are assessed by considering the sensitivity of the receptor (people in the landscape) and the magnitude of change that would affect the view or overall visual amenity. They are defined by the Landscape Institute in GLVIA 3, paragraphs 6.2 as follows.
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173. “An assessment of visual effects deals with the effects of change and development on the views available to people and their visual amenity. The concern here is with assessing how the surroundings of individuals or groups of people may be specifically affected by changes in the content and character of views as a result of the change or loss of existing elements of the landscape and/or introduction of new elements.”
174. The type of effect may also be described as temporary or permanent, direct or indirect, and positive, neutral, or negative.
175. The residual visual effects assessed here are those effects remaining after all of the embedded design mitigation and enhancement measures have been taken into account.
176. The visual assessment has been set out as follows:
• Overview of Visual Effects during Construction; • Overview of Visual Effects during Operation; o Viewpoint Analysis; o Visual Effects on Views from Settlements; o Visual Effects on Views from Transport Routes; o Visual Effects on Views from Recreational Routes; o Visual Effects on Views from Recreational and Tourist Destinations; and o Visual Effects on Views from Ferry / Sailing Routes.
177. Visualisations illustrating the extent of the proposed scheme are provided from nine viewpoint locations and illustrated in Figures 22-2 and 22-6 to 22-14 . Each of the viewpoints are assessed below in
178. Table 22-13 .
22.6.8.1 Visual Effects During Construction 179. Views of construction activity would include construction traffic at the site entrances as well as vehicle and crane movement and the erection of the various elements on site. Ground level construction activities at the temporary construction compounds and storage areas would tend to be screened by fencing or otherwise partially visible from more limited areas. Areas of amenity grassland would be re-graded to increase ground levels as part of the construction works. New linear flood walls and stepped revetments would be added along the promenade and foreshore and would double as seating, and rock armour revetments and a shore connected rock armour breakwater will be added on the foreshore.
180. In general terms, visual effects associated with the construction phase would decrease from High at the start of construction, until they are at the same levels as those predicted once construction of the proposed scheme has completed and is in operation. Each of the component parts of the proposed scheme have been assessed in
181. Table 22-13 in terms of the potential for residual visual effects where there may be some opportunity to view the component parts of the proposed scheme.
Table 22-13 Construction Effects (Visual) of the Proposed scheme
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Proposed Works Assessment Improvements to Views of the proposed improvements to the existing sea walls would be available from Existing Sea Walls small parts of the settlement of Millport, particularly from those properties facing Foul Port to the west and those along Marine Parade to the east. Sections of the B896, Cumbrae Cycle Route 1 and Core Paths NC 74, NC82, NC 1a and Farland Point Walk would also gain views of the works. Parts of the Core Path routes would be closed and diverted during construction works which would involve excavating the footpaths. The magnitude of change would range from High at the start of construction, reducing to Low- Negligible towards the end of construction, such that the level of effect would be Substantial and Significant to Slight and Not Significant. The nature of these effects would be temporary, direct and negative, altering to neutral / positive post works.
Flood Walls / Views of the proposed flood walls / stepped revetments / terraced seating and increased Seating, Stepped ground levels would be available from a small part of the settlement of Millport, Revetments / particularly from those properties facing the bay and promenade. Sections of the B896, Terraced Seating, Cumbrae Cycle Route 1, Core Paths NC 1a, 2, 77 and 74 and locally promoted routes and Increased would also gain views of these works. Small sections of these routes may be temporarily Ground Levels inaccessible during construction works and necessary diversions would be in place. The magnitude of change would range from High at the start of construction, reducing to Low- Negligible towards the end of construction as re-seeding and replanting establishes, such that the level of effect would be Substantial and Significant to Slight and Not Significant. The nature of these effects would be temporary, direct and negative, altering to neutral / positive post works.
Rock Breakwater Views of the proposed shore connected rock armour breakwater and rock armour and Rock revetment works would be available from a small part of the settlement of Millport, Revetment particularly from those properties facing Foul Port. Sections of the B896, Cumbrae Cycle Route 1 and Core Path NC 74 would also gain views of the works. The magnitude of change would range from High at the start of construction, reducing to Low-Negligible towards the end of construction, such that the level of effect would be Substantial and Significant to Slight and Not Significant. The nature of these effects would be temporary, direct and negative, altering to neutral / positive post works.
Offshore Views of the proposed offshore breakwater would be available from a small part of the Breakwater settlement of Millport, particularly from those properties facing the bay and promenade. Sections of the B896, Cumbrae Cycle Route 1, Core Paths NC 1a, 2, 77 and 74, Farland Point and Targets Walk would also gain views of the works. Recreational boat users in the bay would also experience views of the proposed works. The magnitude of change would range from High at the start of construction, reducing overall to Medium towards the end of construction, such that the level of effect would be Substantial to Substantial / Moderate and Significant. The nature of these effects would be temporary, direct and negative, altering to neutral / positive post works.
22.6.8.2 Viewpoint Analysis The viewpoint analysis has been conducted from nine viewpoint locations as illustrated in Figures 22-6 to 22-14. The photography for the views was taken at high tide and therefore represents a period where there would be less visibility of some elements of the proposed scheme, most notably The Leug island is submerged in some of the views.
Table 22-14 Viewpoint Analysis – Millburn Street Figure 22-6 a-b Viewpoint 1: Millburn Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. Description This viewpoint is located on West Bay Road adjacent to a children’s recreational area and residential properties. The view looks east across a small bay (Foul Port) towards the
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Figure 22-6 a-b Viewpoint 1: Millburn Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. Millport townscape and south-east across the bay towards the mainland. To the east (Figure 22-6a), Millburn Street runs along a rocky promontory at the far side of the bay. Residential properties are located on the promontory and form the main focal point in views in this direction. To the south-east (Figure 22-6b) the view is across the wider bay (Millport Bay) towards the mainland. The main focal point in this view is Hunterston Power Station. Although the mainland is visible, it merges with the townscape and the eastern edge of the bay at Farland Point. In the mid-ground of the view in this direction, rocky outcrops taper into the sea where Milton Street terminates and the small island of Spoig is visible in the Bay beyond. On the far right of the view, a paddling pool forms another man-made feature.
Sensitivity The viewpoint is located within the Millport Conservation area and is in a location with benches where people are encouraged to look at the view across the bay. It is also representative of views from residential properties along West Bay Road. The value of the viewpoint is considered to be High and the susceptibility to change from the introduction of the proposed scheme is considered to be High to Medium. The sensitivity to change is therefore assessed as High.
Magnitude of During construction there would be fencing around the walls, delivery vehicles, potential site Change (under storage areas and construction vehicles and activity in the view. The footpath along West Construction) Bay Road would be excavated. A temporary working platform would be built on the foreshore for the construction of the breakwater and there would be construction machinery placing large rocks. The magnitude of change would be High to Medium.
Magnitude of The proposed scheme would introduce a new wall that would replace existing concrete Change (Whilst fencing along West Bay Road to the left of the view. The existing access ramp would be in Operation) replaced with a longer ramp, with rock armour protection on the seaward side. A further wall would be visible facing the viewer along the southern part of Millburn Street across the bay. This wall would upgrade the existing wall and continue south, terminating before the rocky outcrops. The proposed shore connected rock armour breakwater and offshore breakwater would also be visible to the southeast of the view. None of these elements would be prominent new features in the view, but they would be noticeable as small changes in these wide and open views. The magnitude of change would be Low.
Assessment Sensitivity High Magnitude High to Medium (construction) Low (operation) Level of Effect Substantial to Substantial / Moderate and Significant (construction) Moderate and Not Significant (operation) Type of Effect Temporary, indirect and negative (construction) Permanent, indirect and neutral to positive (operation)
Table 22-15 Viewpoint Analysis – Crichton Street Figure 22-7a-b Viewpoint 2: Crichton Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. Description This viewpoint is located on Crichton Street at the southernmost point of the street where it meets Millburn Street. The view represents views from residential properties and the street itself. The view in Figure 22-7a looks east along the row of terraced houses on Crichton Street towards a row of facing houses and buildings which gradually taper towards Millport pier. Beyond the pier the eastern edge of Millport Bay is visible beyond the Eileans and is denoted by houses which stretch along the distant Marine Parade towards Farland Point, backclothed by the dense woodland on Ninian Brae. The mainland is visible in the distance
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Figure 22-7a-b Viewpoint 2: Crichton Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. beyond the trees. Figure 22-7b shows views to the south and south-east. The main focal points in this direction are Hunterston Power Station and the open sea between the mainland and Little Cumbrae. The rock outcrop is visible in the foreground of the view.
Sensitivity The viewpoint is located within the Millport Conservation Area and is in a location where residents would have a view. The value of the viewpoint is therefore assessed as High. Residents would be more susceptible to changes in views from their primary residence. The proposed scheme would introduce some new, low lying elements into the foreground of the view and the susceptibility to change from the introduction of the proposed scheme is assessed as High to Medium. The sensitivity to change is therefore assessed as High.
Magnitude of During construction there would be fencing around the walls, delivery vehicles, potential site Change (under storage areas and construction vehicles and activity in the view. Excavation and Construction) reinstatement of the footpath would be required, and road closures would be required. A 50m long section of masonry revetment will also be replaced with a concrete stepped revetment. A temporary working platform would be built on the foreshore for the construction of the breakwater and there would be construction machinery placing large rocks. The magnitude of change would be High.
Magnitude of The proposed scheme would introduce a low-lying flood wall with incorporated seating along Change (Whilst the seaward edge of Crichton Street. The existing revetment would be replaced by a in Operation) stepped revetment which would double as terraced seating towards the end of Crichton Street as it nears the rocky promontory and buildings. The proposed rock armour revetment would also be visible to the fore of the facing houses in the view and would continue to the end of the rocky protrusion. The rock armour would tone with the natural rock and would reduce the visibility of the hard, concrete edge fore of the facing houses. To the south of the view, shore connected rock armour would be visible extending from the rocky outcrop in the foreground. None of these elements would be prominent new features in the view, but they would be noticeable as small changes. The magnitude of change would be Low.
Assessment Sensitivity High Magnitude High (construction) Low (operation) Level of Effect Substantial and Significant (construction) Moderate and Not Significant (operation) Type of Effect Temporary, indirect and negative (construction) Permanent, indirect and neutral to positive (operation)
Table 22-16 Viewpoint Analysis – Clyde Street Figure 22-8 a-b Viewpoint 3: Clyde Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. Description This viewpoint is located at a small rocky beach area to the rear of Clyde Street accessed from Clyde Street along a pedestrian footpath between two buildings to the east of the street. The viewpoint represents views from residential properties and users of nearby recreational routes. The view east is of close-range built form, railings, sea walls, natural rock and concrete structures. Beyond this there is a view across the bay towards Farland Point and the mainland beyond. In the mid-view, the Eileans form a secondary focal point in the view. In the view to the south, the main focal points are the Hunterston Power Station, the Spoig and the sea beyond the mainland (Figure 22-8b ). Foreground elements in the view to the south-west include a small section of sandy beach (out of view), natural rock foreshore and sea walls.
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Figure 22-8 a-b Viewpoint 3: Clyde Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. Sensitivity The viewpoint is located within the Millport Conservation Area and is in a location where residents would have a view. It is also located near several recreational routes. The value of the viewpoint is therefore assessed as High. Residents would be more susceptible to changes in views from their primary residence. The view would be experienced by walkers whose attention or interest is likely to be focused on the landscape. The proposed scheme would introduce some new, low lying elements into the foreground of the view and the susceptibility to change from the introduction of the proposed scheme is assessed as High to Medium. Sensitivity to change is therefore assessed as High.
Magnitude of During construction there would be limited access to this area. A temporary working platform Change (under would be built on the foreshore for the construction of the rock revetment and there would be Construction) construction machinery placing the large rocks. There would also be visibility of dredging vessels and delivery barges in views towards Hunterston. The magnitude of change would be High. Magnitude of The proposed scheme would introduce a rock armour revetment to the natural rock up to the Change (Whilst built residential walls to the south-west (Figure 22-8b ). Although the rock armour would be in Operation) noticeable in the view, it would not form a prominent new feature but would be noticeable as a small change in the foreground of the wider view. The proposed offshore breakwater would also be visible in the view south and would introduce a linear rocky element that would span the open water to the fore of Hunterston. The visual effects would be further reduced due to the foreground built elements and the built distant elements at Hunterston. The magnitude of change would be Medium-Low for the offshore breakwater, and Low for the remainder of the proposed scheme.
Assessment Sensitivity High Magnitude High (construction)Medium-Low to Low (operation) Level of Effect Substantial and Significant (construction) Moderate and Not Significant (operation) Type of Effect Temporary, indirect and negative (construction)Permanent, indirect and neutral to positive (operation)
Table 22-17 Viewpoint Analysis – Millport Pier Figure 22-9a-d Viewpoint 4: Millport Pier The assessment takes account of a 360° angle of view from this location as illustrated. Description This viewpoint is located at the seaward end of the pier and represents views from residents and visitors to the pier. The view north-east to east looks across Newtown Bay and the expanse of buildings arcing the bay beyond the shoreline and promenade. Key focal points in this direction include the Cathedral of the Isles spire, the colour and massing of built form and activity / movement along the promenade. To the south-east and south, the view is across the mouth of Millport Bay towards the mainland. Key features in this direction include the Eileans in the midground, distant mainland hills and Hunterston Power Station. Views south to south- west look across the open expanse of water towards the Spoig and Little Cumbrae islands.
Views west and north-west look over the western edge of Millport Bay and include buildings and shoreline. Features in this direction include the Isle of Arran in the distance.
Sensitivity The viewpoint is located on the boundary of the Millport Conservation Area, and is also the starting or end points for a number of recreational routes. The value of the viewpoint is therefore assessed as High. The view would be available for visitors and residents accessing the pier, but the pier is not currently used by ferries or promoted as a tourist destination. The
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Figure 22-9a-d Viewpoint 4: Millport Pier The assessment takes account of a 360° angle of view from this location as illustrated. proposed scheme would introduce some new, low lying elements into the mid-ground of the view and the susceptibility to change from the introduction of the proposed scheme is assessed as Medium. The sensitivity to change is therefore assessed as High to High-Medium.
Magnitude of During construction there would be visibility of temporary fencing, delivery and works Change (under vehicles / machinery along the coastline to the north-east. A temporary working platform Construction) would be built on the foreshore for the construction of the rock revetment to the west and north-west and there would be construction machinery placing large rocks. There would be dredging vessels for the proposed offshore works and activity from barges delivering materials. The magnitude of change would be High to High-Medium.
Magnitude of The proposed scheme would introduce a variety of low-lying elements into the view along the Change (Whilst Millport shoreline to the north-east and south-west. These would include refurbishment of in Operation) the flood wall and jetties, proposed linear flood walls / seating, increased ground levels, stepped revetments / terraced seating to the north and north-east (Figure 22-9a-b) and rock armour revetment and shore connected rock armour breakwater to the west (Figure 22-9d). The proposed offshore breakwater would be a noticeable linear element in the view to the south / south-east and would introduce new features between The Leug, The Spoig and the Eileans (Figure 22-9c). These would form a line that would appear to partially enclose Millport Bay when viewed from this location (the extent of the offshore breakwater visibility would, however, reduce towards the middle of the pier and towards Quayhead as infrastructure on the pier become foreground features, partially screening the offshore breakwater). The magnitude of change would be Medium for the proposed offshore breakwater, and Low to Negligible for the remainder of the proposed scheme.
Assessment Sensitivity High to High-Medium Magnitude High to High-Medium (construction) Medium (proposed offshore breakwater) (operation) Low to Negligible (remaining elements of the proposed scheme) (operation) Level of Substantial to Substantial / Moderate and Significant (construction) Effect Substantial / Moderate and Significant (proposed offshore breakwater) (operation) Moderate to Slight and Not Significant (remaining elements of the proposed scheme) (operation) Type of Temporary, indirect and negative (construction) Effect Permanent, indirect and neutral to positive (operation)
Table 22-18 Viewpoint Analysis – Stuart Street Figure 22-10a-b Viewpoint 5: Stuart Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. Description This viewpoint is located on Stuart Street at a viewing area along the existing seawall. The main focus of the view east is along the arc of the bay where the coloured buildings and activity of Millport are evident. The wooded Ninian Brae forms the back-drop to the buildings with the mainland visible in the distance beyond. Jetties, rock outcrops and the Eileans are visible features in the Midview. In views to the south, the Hunterston Power Station forms a focal point on the distant mainland, framed between Millport pier and the Eileans. Views to the west are towards Millport townscape.
Sensitivity The viewpoint is located within the Millport Conservation Area and comprises a section of a number of recreational routes. The value of the viewpoint is therefore assessed as High. The
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Figure 22-10a-b Viewpoint 5: Stuart Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. view would be experienced by residents, visitors and users of the recreational routes. The proposed scheme would introduce some new, low lying elements into the foreground and mid-ground of the view. The susceptibility to change from the introduction of the proposed scheme is assessed as High to Medium. Sensitivity to change is therefore assessed as High.
Magnitude of During construction access to the wall in the foreground would be restricted and there would Change (under be visibility of fencing along the promenade, delivery vehicles, potential site storage areas Construction) and construction vehicles and activity in the view.
There would also be visibility of dredging vessels and delivery barges in the bay. The magnitude of change would be High.
Magnitude of The proposed scheme would introduce a variety of low-lying elements into the view along the Change (Whilst Millport shoreline to the east. These would include refurbishing the existing concrete crest wall in Operation) in the foreground (Figure 22-10b), the introduction of linear flood walls / seating as well as stepped revetments / terraced seating to the north-east (Figure 22-10a). The proposed offshore breakwater would be visible to the south, partially screened by Millport pier. This would be visible as a rocky linear feature that would appear as a similar rocky feature to the Eileans and would be seen in the context of the pier. The magnitude of change would be Low.
Assessment Sensitivity High Magnitude High (construction) Low (operation) Level of Substantial and Significant (construction) Effect Moderate and Not Significant (operation) Type of Temporary, indirect and negative (construction) Effect Permanent, indirect and neutral to positive (operation)
Table 22-19 Viewpoint Analysis – Guildford Street Figure 22-11a-b Viewpoint 6: Guidlford Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. Description This viewpoint is located adjacent to the Millport Cenotaph on the promenade, looking east and south along the bay and south-east towards the mainland. It represents views from residential properties along the front and from people visiting and walking along the promenade. The view east is along the hard, elevated edge of the promenade, railings and the colour and activity of the buildings and traffic. The main focal points are the close-range elements such as planters / street furniture, movement / activity of people and traffic, and the colourful buildings. The main focal points to the south-east include the Cenotaph, the Eileans, Hunterston Power Station and boats in the bay. To the south Little Cumbrae is visible, and in the wider view are the brightly coloured children’s swings and a crazy golf course. Benches are arranged along the promenade to face south towards the bay, the Eileans and Little Cumbrae.
Sensitivity The viewpoint is located within the Millport Conservation Area at a point traversed by a number of recreational routes. The value of the viewpoint is therefore assessed as High. The view would be experienced by residents, visitors and users of the promenade and recreational routes. The proposed scheme would introduce some new, low lying elements into the foreground and mid-ground of the view. The susceptibility to change from the introduction of the proposed scheme is assessed as High to Medium. Sensitivity to change is therefore assessed as High.
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Figure 22-11a-b Viewpoint 6: Guidlford Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. Magnitude of During construction there would be visibility of fencing along the promenade, delivery Change (under vehicles, potential site storage areas, construction vehicles and activity in the view. Access Construction) to parts of the promenade would be restricted where parts of the footpath are excavated for construction. There would also be visibility of dredging vessels and delivery barges in the bay. The magnitude of change would be High to High-Medium.
Magnitude of The proposed scheme would introduce a variety of low-lying elements into the mid-ground of Change the view along the Millport shoreline to the east. These would include a linear flood wall / (Whilst in seating replacing existing benches and planters along the middle of the paved area in the mid- Operation) view, and linear flood walls / seating to the shoreside of increased ground level / grassed areas and stepped revetment / terraced seating to the north-east (Figure 22-11a). The proposed offshore breakwater would be visible to the south as a new rocky linear feature that would span part of the bay and appear as a similar rocky feature to the Leug and The Spoig (Figure 22- 11b). The magnitude of change would be Medium-Low for the proposed offshore breakwater, and Low to Negligible for the remainder of the proposed scheme.
Assessment Sensitivity High Magnitude High to High-Medium (construction) Medium-Low to Negligible (operation) Level of Effect Substantial to Substantial / Moderate and Significant (construction) Moderate to Slight / Negligible and Not Significant (operation) Type of Effect Temporary, indirect and negative (construction) Permanent, indirect and neutral to positive (operation)
Table 22-20 Viewpoint Analysis – Glasgow Street Figure 22-12a-b Viewpoint 7: Glasgow Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. Description This viewpoint is located towards the eastern end of Glasgow Street. The view looks west across Glasgow Street to Cross House and Ninean Brae to the east and an open area of grass towards the Eileans, Little Cumbrae and the Isle of Arran to the south-west. It is representative of views from residential properties along the street and from residents and visitors to the promenade and those using the recreational routes. In the foreground of the view, built form occupies the view to the east with Cross House being a prominent feature. To the south and south-west, an expanse of amenity grassland falls gently towards the shore edge to the rocky beach beyond. Due to the relative lack of foreground elements, the eye is drawn out across the open grass and water to the more distant views where the Eileans, Little Cumbrae and the Isle of Arran form the main focal points. Benches are lined along the promenade with primary views to the south and south-west.
Sensitivity The viewpoint is located within the Millport Conservation Area at a point traversed by a number of recreational routes. The value of the viewpoint is therefore assessed as High. The view would be experienced by residents, visitors and users of the promenade and recreational routes. The proposed scheme would introduce some new, low lying elements into the foreground and mid-ground of the view. The susceptibility to change from the introduction of the proposed scheme is assessed as High to Medium. Sensitivity to change is therefore assessed as High.
Magnitude of During construction there would be visibility of fencing along the promenade, delivery Change (under vehicles, potential site storage areas and construction vehicles and activity in the view. Construction) Access to parts of the promenade would be restricted. There would also be distant visibility
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Figure 22-12a-b Viewpoint 7: Glasgow Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. of dredging vessels and delivery barges in the bay. The magnitude of change would be High to High-Medium.
Magnitude of The proposed scheme would introduce low-lying elements into the foreground of the view Change (Whilst along the Millport shoreline. in Operation) The seaward section of the garden wall at the Cross House would be rebuilt at the same height and a further section of flood wall up to 1.2m high would extend west from the Cross House wall. This would slightly increase screening of the foreshore and water in the foreground of the view. The level of the grass area on the landward side of this wall will be raised and planting introduced to reduce the impact of the new wall on the view.
Further west, the level of the grass area will be raised, and a short section of low flood wall / seating constructed on the seaward side of the grass area. The proposed raised grass would integrate this section in the view such that there would be minimal visual effect other than a slight increase in screening of the foreshore in the view.
The proposed offshore breakwater would be mostly screened by the Eileans in the view but the western edge would be visible and would appear to bridge the Eileans with the Leug. This would occupy a very small part of the overall view and would appear as a rocky, linear feature that would not be out of character or in contrast to existing elements. The magnitude of change would be Low to Negligible.
Assessment Sensitivity High Magnitude High to High-Medium (construction) Low to Negligible (operation) Level of Effect Substantial to Substantial / Moderate and Significant (construction) Moderate to Slight and Not Significant (operation) Type of Effect Temporary, indirect and negative (construction) Permanent, indirect and neutral to positive (operation)
Table 22-21 Viewpoint Analysis – Kelburn Street Figure 22-13a-b Viewpoint 8: Kelburn Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. Description This viewpoint is located on Kelburn Street at the junction with Ferry Road and is orientated south-east to south-west across grassland towards Kames Bay. It represents views from residential properties along Kelburn Street and Kames Bay Road and from visitors to the promenade and using the recreational routes. In the foreground of the view to the south-east, an expanse of amenity grassland falls gently towards the promenade and sandy beach beyond. Houses line the road around the bay in this direction and Ninean Brae rises up forming a wooded back-drop, with the main view out towards the open water. The mainland is just visible beyond Farland Point. To the south-west, terraced houses line Kelburn Street with views out across the grassland to the seascape beyond. Little Cumbrae forms a focal point to the right of the view and the Isle of Arran forms a secondary focal point beyond in the distance. Street furniture such as benches and lamp posts line the edge of the road in each direction.
Sensitivity The viewpoint is located within the Millport Conservation Area at a point traversed by a number of recreational routes. The value of the viewpoint is therefore assessed as High. The view would be experienced by residents, visitors and users of the promenade and recreational routes. The proposed scheme would introduce some new, low lying elements into the foreground and mid-ground of the view. The susceptibility to change from the
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Figure 22-13a-b Viewpoint 8: Kelburn Street The assessment takes account of a 180° angle of view from this location as illustrated. introduction of the proposed scheme is assessed as High to Medium. Sensitivity to change is therefore assessed as High.
Magnitude of During construction there would be visibility of fencing along the promenade, delivery Change (under vehicles / barges, potential site storage areas and construction vehicles and activity in the Construction) view. Access to parts of the promenade would be restricted. Additional barges and dredging activity would take place beyond the Eileans and would be visible as a distant feature. The magnitude of change would be High to High-Medium.
Magnitude of The proposed scheme would introduce low-lying elements into the foreground of the view. Change (Whilst These would include linear flood walls / terraced seating to the shore side of the grassed in Operation) area. The ground level would be increased to the seaward edge of the grassed area to accommodate the wall / terraced seating. To the left of the view (Figure 22-13a), white railings along the existing seawall would be replaced by a low (0.8m high) sea wall. The proposed offshore breakwater would be mostly screened by the Eileans in the view but the western edge would be visible and would appear as a distant feature beyond the Eileans connecting to the Leug. This would occupy a very small part of the overall view and would appear as a rocky, linear feature that would not be out of character or in contrast to existing elements. The magnitude of change would be Low to Negligible.
Assessment Sensitivity High Magnitude High to High-Medium (construction) Low to Negligible (operation) Level of Effect Substantial to Substantial / Moderate and Significant (construction) Moderate to Slight and Not Significant (operation) Type of Effect Temporary, indirect and negative (construction) Permanent, indirect and neutral to positive (operation)
Table 22-22 Viewpoint Analysis – Farland Hill Figure 22-14 Viewpoint 9: Farland Hill The assessment takes account of a 90° angle of view from this location as illustrated. Description This viewpoint is located at an elevated point halfway along the ridge between Farland Hill and Craigengour Hill. It is representative of views for walkers accessing a network of informal paths. There are long range, panoramic views from the north-west to the south-east from this location. The view towards the proposed scheme is orientated north-west towards Millport Bay. The main foci of the view in this direction is the expanse of Millport along the bay, the Eileans, and the Isle of Arran.
Sensitivity The viewpoint is located within the Great Cumbrae Special Landscape Area. The value of the viewpoint is therefore assessed as High, although it does not correspond with any documented vantage points or features of interest. The view would be experienced by walkers whose attention is likely to be on the surrounding landscape and seascape. The proposed scheme would introduce some new, low lying elements into the foreground and mid- ground of the view. The susceptibility to change from the introduction of the proposed scheme is assessed as High to Medium. Sensitivity to change is therefore assessed as High.
Magnitude of During construction there would be distant visibility of construction activity along the Change (under promenade, delivery vehicles, potential site storage areas and construction vehicles. This Construction) would be seen in a small part of the view in the context of the settlement of Millport where there is movement and activity. There would also be distant visibility of dredging vessels and
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Figure 22-14 Viewpoint 9: Farland Hill The assessment takes account of a 90° angle of view from this location as illustrated. delivery barges in the bay. This would only occupy a small area of the view and would be seen at distance. The magnitude of change would be Low to Negligible.
Magnitude of The proposed scheme would introduce low-lying built elements into the mid-ground of the Change (Whilst view and would include narrow strips of linear sea walls / seating and stepped revetments / in Operation) terraced seating along the shoreline to the fore of the grassed area, rock armour revetments and shore connected rock armour breakwater and proposed offshore breakwater. These elements would be barely discernible in the view and would not be out of character or in contrast to existing built elements in the view. The magnitude of change would be Negligible
Assessment Sensitivity High Magnitude Low to Negligible (construction) Negligible (operation) Level of Effect Moderate / Slight to Slight and Significant (construction) Slight to Negligible and Not Significant (operation) Type of Effect Temporary, indirect and negative to neutral (construction) Permanent, indirect and neutral to positive (operation)
22.6.8.3 Visual Effects on Views from Settlements 182. As described in Section 22.4, Millport is the only settlement within the Study Area and effects of the proposed scheme on the settlement is assessed below. Viewpoints 1-8 (Figures 22-6 to 22-14) illustrates views of the proposed scheme from different parts of the settlement, primarily along the promenade.
183. The value of the settlement is assessed as Medium to High due to the Millport Conservation Area and the adjacent Great Cumbrae Special Landscape Area. Susceptibility to change from the introduction of the proposed scheme is assessed as. The overall sensitivity to change is therefore assessed as High.
184. The proposed onshore flood protection works is at the interface between the settlement and the coastal edge (with the additional proposed offshore flood protection works out in the bay). Although there is a density to the settlement, some houses are situated in streets with limited or no views of the proposed scheme. ZTV analysis and site visits confirm that the proposed scheme would be most visible from those residential receptors facing the promenade, in particular from:
• Glasgow Street; • Kelburn Street; • Marine Parade; • Kames Bay; • Guilford Street; • Stuart Street; • Clyde Street • Crichton Street; • Millburn Street; and • West Bay Road.
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185. There would be additional views from other parts of the settlement where visibility would be less due to additional intervening-built form or vegetation. Views from these areas are most likely to be from upper stories of buildings, through gaps in buildings or over rooftops. The proposed offshore breakwater would be the most visible element from these, often elevated, areas.
186. Due to the topography of the bay and surrounding hill form, the settlement has developed around the arc of bay with most buildings oriented to face the bay. A coastal road and promenade further buffer the buildings from the shore and promote further viewing opportunities for residents. The majority of views from the settlement therefore are focused across the bay. Key focal points in these views include the Eileans, Hunterston Power Station, Isle of Arran and transient vessels in the bay and beyond. The proposed scheme would feature in the foreground of views out across the bay and would also be influenced by moving traffic, pedestrians, cyclists as well as parked cars, crazy golf, balustrades, amenity grassland, street lighting and street furniture. The proposed scheme would introduce relatively low-lying visual features into the view including increasing the height of existing sea walls as well as the introduction of new linear flood walls which would double as seating and stepped revetments which would double as seating terraces. It would also increase ground levels in grassed areas to accommodate low levels walls / seating. Rock armour would be added to revetments to the west of the bay and a shore connected rock armour breakwater would be added to the west of the bay. The proposed offshore breakwater would also be visible in views from the coastal road and promenade across the bay.
187. The magnitude of change would range from Low to Zero resulting in a Moderate to No View and Not Significant. The nature of these effects would be permanent, direct or indirect and neutral to positive.
22.6.8.4 Visual Effects on Views from Transport Routes 188. As described in Section 22.4, the B896 is the only main route with potential visibility of the proposed scheme and effects of the route is assessed below. The visual effects on views from this route are annotated in Viewpoints 1, 5, 6, 7 and 8 (Figures 22-6, 22-10 to 22-13). The route was driven and travelled in both directions in order to assess the potential effects and the assessment has been assisted on site with the use of ZTV maps.
189. The B896 circles the island of Great Cumbrae following the coastline and is the road that directly accesses the ferry to and from Largs. The route passes through Millport and runs parallel to the proposed onshore flood protection works.
190. The route is located within the Great Cumbrae Special Landscape Area and passes through the Conservation Area of Millport. The route is also promoted as part of the Cumbrae Cycle Route and there are various sections of Core Paths along the route. The value of the route is therefore assessed as High to Medium. Most road users would experience the landscape transiently whilst driving or cycling and experiencing a sequence of views of the proposed scheme, often in one direction focused on the direction of travel and often experienced at speed (Low susceptibility). As a result, the overall sensitivity of road users on this route has been assessed as Medium.
191. ZTV analysis indicates that there would be theoretical visibility of the proposed scheme as the road enters Millport Bay near Farland Point and continues as the road passes through the settlement towards Nupkur Point to the west. There would be transitory views of the proposed scheme which would be visible in the context of parked cars and movement of other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. The most visible elements are likely to be increased ground levels in grassed areas to accommodate low levels walls / seating and new flood wall on the promenade between Clifton Street and College Street. Both of these would be relatively low lying in the view and would form the
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foreground to views out across the bay to more distant focal points. The proposed offshore breakwater would also be visible out in the bay in the distance. The magnitude of change would range from Medium-Low to Negligible resulting in a Moderate to Slight / Negligible and Not Significant effect. The nature of these effects would be permanent, indirect and neutral to positive.
22.6.8.5 Visual Effects on Views from Recreational Routes 192. The visual assessment has considered the potential visual effects likely to be experienced by people (walkers / cyclists / horse riders / joggers / others) on recreational routes within the Study Area. The assessment of recreational routes is set out in Table 22-23. The locations of the recreational routes are illustrated in Figure 22-5. Each of these routes were walked and / or visited and walked in sections according to the ZTV coverage.
193. All of the routes have been assessed as of High sensitivity on account of their High to Medium value as recreational routes and the High susceptibility of the people using these routes, mostly walkers and cyclists, whose attention would be focused on the landscape and seascape around them.
Table 22-23 Visual Effects on Views from Recreational Routes Receptor Description of Effects Cumbrae Cycle Route 1 Cumbrae Cycle Route 1 is a popular recreational route that follows the B896 (partly overlapped by around the island. Core Paths NC1, NC1a, NC2, NC77, NC74 and NC82 follow the B896, Core Paths NC1, same route as Cumbrae Cycle Route 1 around Millport Bay, but divide the route up NC1a, NC2, NC77, NC74 into individual segments. The visual effects on views from these routes are and NC82) annotated in Viewpoints 1, 5, 6, 7 and 8 (Figures 22-6, 22-10 to 22-13).
ZTV analysis indicates that there would be theoretical visibility of the proposed scheme as the route enters Millport Bay near Farland Point. Visibility continues as the road passes through Millport until the road turns north-west near Nupkur Rock to the west. There would be transitory views of the proposed scheme which would be visible in the context of parked cars and movement of other vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. The most visible elements would be increased ground levels in grassed areas to accommodate low level flood walls / seating, new flood wall on the promenade between Clifton Street and College Street and raised sea walls at Marine Parade and West Bay Road / Millburn Street. These would be relatively low lying in the view and would form the foreground to views out across the bay to more distant focal points. The proposed offshore breakwater would also be visible out in the bay in the distance. The magnitude of change would range from Medium-Low to Negligible and the resulting level of effect would be Moderate to Slight and Not Significant. The nature of these effects would be permanent, indirect and neutral to positive.
Inner Circle Walk The Inner Circle Walk follows a route from the coastal front / B896 in the centre of (partly overlapped by Millport and follows minor roads up the rising landform to Glaid Stone and Barbay B896, Cumbrae Cycle Hill in the centre of the island, returning along the B899. It is partly overlapped by Routes 1 and 2 and the Cumbrae Cycle Routes 1 and 2, and Core Paths NC2 and NC86. However, Core Paths NC2 and there is no visibility of the proposed scheme from the sections overlapped by NC86) Cumbrae Cycle Route 2 and Core Path NC86. The visual effects on views from these routes are annotated in Viewpoints 7 and 8 (Figures 22-12 to 22-13).
The ZTV indicates theoretical visibility of the proposed scheme along the B896 / Cumbrae Cycle Route 1 / NC2 and where the route climbs the hill north of Breakough Farm. Site visits confirmed that there would be very limited views from the hill slopes north of Breakough Farm due to surrounding vegetation and distance. The main feature visible from this location would be glimpsed views of the
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Receptor Description of Effects proposed offshore breakwater. The main views would occur on the section of the route that follows the B896 / Cumbrae Cycle Route 1 / NC2 within Millport. From this section of the route there would be visibility of increased ground level adjacent to the road which would in turn screen new linear flood wall / seating elements. These elements would be relatively low lying in the view and would form the foreground to views out across the bay to more distant focal points. The proposed offshore breakwater would also be visible out in the bay in the distance. The magnitude of change would range from Low to Negligible and the resulting level of effect would be Moderate to Slight and Not Significant. The nature of these effects would be permanent, indirect and neutral to positive.
Farland Point Walk Farland Point Walk extends from the old pier in Millport along the B896 to Farland (partly overlapped by point located at the eastern tip of Millport Bay. The route is partly overlapped by the B896, Cumbrae Cycle Cumbrae Cycle Route 1, Core Paths NC1, NC1a, NC2, NC41, NC77 and NC82, Route 1, Core Paths and the Inner Circle Walk. The visual effects on views from these routes are NC1, NC1a, NC2, annotated in Viewpoints 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 (Figures 22-9 to 22-13). NC41, NC77 and NC82, The proposed scheme would be visible along the majority of the route where there and Inner Circle Walk) would be visibility of increased ground level adjacent to the road which would in turn screen new linear flood wall / seating elements. There would also be visibility of the increased height of the existing sea wall along Marine Parade. These elements would be relatively low lying in the view and would form the foreground to views out across the bay to more distant focal points. The proposed offshore breakwater would also be visible out in the bay in the distance; however, it would be most prominent from the pier itself (Viewpoint 4). The rocky promontory of the route at the eastern end is partially covered in scrub vegetation which screens some views inland in places. The main focus of views from this section of the route are across the Firth of Clyde towards the Isle of Arran, Little Cumbrae and Hunterston. The magnitude of change would range from Medium to Negligible and the resulting level of effect would be Substantial / Moderate and Significant (from and near the pier due to the proposed offshore breakwater only) to Moderate to Slight and Not Significant (from the remainder of the route). The nature of these effects would be permanent, indirect and neutral to positive.
Fintray Bay Walk Fintray Bay Walk is a circuit to the west of the bay. It starts at Millport Pier and (partly overlapped by follows B896 west past Nupkur Point and follows the road to Fintray Bay where it B896, Cumbrae Cycle heads along a track back inland towards Upper Kirkton where it picks up a minor Route 1, Core Paths road and follows it past Mid Kirkton from where it drops back down to the pier. NC1, NC74 and Targets Walk follows a similar route but instead of following the B896 at Nupkur Targets Walk) Rock, it continues down the coast towards the rock and follows the coast line / B896 north until Sheriff’s Port where it cuts east and joins the Fintray Bay Walk at Upper Kirkton.
The visual effects on views from these routes are annotated in Viewpoints 1 and 4 (Figures 22-6 and 22-9).
ZTV analysis illustrates that the main views from the routes are where it travels along the B896 towards Nupkur Rock. From here there would be views of the increased height sea walls, and the new flood wall / seating at Foul Port and views across to the shore connected rock armour breakwater and rock armour revetment adjacent to Foul Port. The greatest effects would occur where the routes pass in close proximity to the north of Foul Port along West Bay Road. At this point the sea wall would form the boundary to the road and would extend an existing low-lying wall. An additional wall would run along Millburn Street, reinforcing and extending
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Receptor Description of Effects an existing wall. Similarly the Shore connected rock armour breakwater would extend and reinforce an existing rock promontory to the south of Millburn Street. The proposed offshore breakwater would be visible as a new rocky feature above the water surface out in the bay but would join existing rock formations (The Spoig and The Leug and heading towards the southern Eileans island).
Visibility of the walls would reduce as the routes continue along West Bay Road towards Nupkur Rock due to intervening built elements (play area, sheltered seating), vegetation and distance. The proposed offshore breakwater would still be visible as a feature due to the flat expansive nature of the sea (subject to intervening built form and vegetation), but would become less of a prominent feature, occupying a smaller part of the wider view. The main orientation of views from Nupkur are across the bay towards the mainland to the east and south-east, Little Cumbrae to the south and Arran to the west.
The magnitude of change would range from Medium to Negligible and the resulting level of effect would be Substantial / Moderate and Significant (from the old pier due to the proposed offshore breakwater only) to Moderate to Slight and Not Significant (from the remainder of the routes). The nature of these effects would be permanent, indirect and neutral to positive.
22.6.8.6 Visual Effects on Views from Recreational and Tourist Destinations 194. The visual assessment has considered the potential visual effects likely to be experienced by people at recreational / visitor or tourist destinations or attractions within the Study Area. The assessment of recreational and tourist destinations is set out in Table 22-24 and are illustrated in Figure 22-5.
195. Each of these destinations were visited and the assessment has been assisted on site with the use of ZTVs.
196. All of the recreational and tourist destinations have been assessed as of High sensitivity on account of their High value as recreational destinations and the High susceptibility of the people visiting these destinations.
Table 22-24 Visual Effects on Recreational and Tourist Destinations Receptor Description of Effects Millport Millport Promenade extends around most of Millport Bay, although the most frequently used part Promenade of the promenade is towards the centre of the bay where there is access to local shops, beaches and promenade attractions such as crazy golf. The area is heavily visited by tourists in the summer months who visit the island via a ferry from Largs or paddle steamer from Ayr or Port Glasgow. The visual effects on views from the promenade are annotated in Viewpoints 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 (Figures 22-9 to 22-13).
The proposed scheme would introduce and upgrade elements along the promenade which would include increased ground levels in grassed areas to accommodate low level flood walls / seating, new flood wall on the promenade between Clifton Street and College Street and raised sea walls at Marine Parade and West Bay Road / Millburn Street. These would be relatively low lying in the view and would form the foreground to views out across the bay to more distant focal points. The proposed offshore breakwater would also be visible out in the bay in the distance. Stepped revetments would be introduced doubling as terraced seating leading to the foreshore. Resurfacing of the existing wall at Stuart / Guilford Street would also be visible.
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Receptor Description of Effects These elements would be visible to those using the promenade but would not appear un-familiar in this context and would not affect the overall experience of the views from the promenade.
Views from the promenade also feature distant focal points such as Hunterston Power Station, Little Cumbrae and Isle of Arran as well as vessels in and beyond the bay. In these views, the proposed onshore flood protection works would be seen as secondary, foreground elements, effecting a noticeable, but small level of change. The proposed offshore breakwater, part of the proposed offshore protection works would be visible as a new rocky feature above the water surface but joining existing rock formations (The Spoig and The Leug and heading towards the southern Eileans island) and would appear most prominent from the old pier, as illustrated in Viewpoint 4.
The magnitude of change would range from Medium to Negligible and the resulting level of effect would be Substantial / Moderate and Significant (from and near the old pier due to the proposed offshore breakwater only) to Moderate to Slight and Not Significant (from the remainder of the promenade). The nature of these effects would be permanent, indirect and neutral to positive.
Crocodile Crocodile Rock is a popular tourist attraction and comprises a crocodile head painted onto Rock naturally formed rock, roughly resembling a crocodile head. It is located on the beach adjacent to a jetty to the south of Glasgow Street.
From the rock itself, the main focus of the view is out across the bay towards the Eileans, Little Cumbrae and Hunterston Power Station. The proposed scheme modifications in the vicinity of the jetty would be noticeable in the foreground of the view. In views inland towards Millport, stepped revetments doubling as terraced seating leading from the promenade to the foreshore would be the most noticeable element. Beyond this, low level flood walls / seating accommodated by increased ground levels would be visible. There would be glimpses of the proposed offshore breakwater beyond the Eileans in the mid-ground of views to the south-west. These elements would not appear un-familiar in this context and would not affect the overall experience of Crocodile Rock.
The magnitude of change would be Low and the resulting level of effect would be Moderate and Not Significant. The nature of these effects would be permanent, indirect and neutral to positive.
22.6.8.7 Visual Effects on Views from Ferry / Sailing Routes 197. The visual assessment has considered the potential visual effects likely to be experienced by people on ferries and sailing routes within the Study Area. The assessment is set out in
198. Table 22-25 and illustrated in Figure 22-5.
Table 22-25 Visual Effects on Views from Ferry / Sailing Routes Receptor Description of Effects Paddle This seasonal paddle steamer ferries tourists / visitors from Port Glasgow to Cumbrae via Steamer stops on the mainland, Isle of Bute and Isle of Arran. At the time of assessment, the vessel Waverley has been out of service due to repairs, however, it has been included in the assessment as a precaution. The paddle steamer has a varied timetable and at times approaches Great Cumbrae from the south (from Ayr), stopping at Keppel Pier to the south-east of Millport. On other occasions it passes the bay to the south en-route to Rothesay and the Isle of Arran.
Views of the proposed scheme from the paddle steamer would be distant and the proposed onshore flood protection works would be viewed as minor features in the wider view of the settlement of Millport, with other features such as the cathedral spire, pier and painted
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Receptor Description of Effects buildings forming focal points in the view. The proposed offshore breakwater, part of the proposed offshore flood protection works would be visible as the vessel passes to the south of the bay but would join existing rock formations (The Spoig and The Leug and heading towards the southern Eileans island) and therefore would not be incongruous with surrounding features. The breakwater would be seen in the context of the settlement of Millport and at a moderate distance of over 1km.
The magnitude of change would be Negligible, and the resulting level of effect would be Slight and Not Significant. The nature of these effects would be permanent, indirect and neutral.
Recreational There are a number of yachts and small vessels used recreationally in Millport Bay and Yachts and around the island. They are sometimes seen moored in the bay or are stored on land near Small Vessels Nupkur Rock. Views from these vessels towards Millport and the proposed onshore flood protection works would be similar to those described for the P.S. Waverly consisting of minor features in a wider view of Millport with other features such as the cathedral spire, pier and painted buildings forming focal points in the view.
The proposed offshore breakwater, part of the proposed offshore flood protection works would be the most visible element of the proposed scheme. This would be visible at relatively close range and would therefore be seen as a more prominent man-made linear feature joining and extending beyond The Leug and The Spoig towards the Eileans.
The magnitude of change would range from High-Medium to Negligible and the resulting level of effect would be Substantial to Substantial / Moderate and Significant (due to the proposed offshore breakwater only) to Slight to Negligible and Not Significant. The nature of these effects would be permanent, indirect and neutral.
22.7 Summary of Effects 199. A summary of the seascape, landscape and visual effects are provided in Table 22-26.
Table 22-26 Summary of seascape, landscape and visual effects Receptor Sensitivity Construction Effects Operation Effects Magnitude Level of Effect Magnitude Level of Effect Landscape Effects – Landscape Character LCT 61 - Coastal Medium to High to Zero Substantial / Low to Zero Slight to None Fringe with Low Moderate to None Agriculture Landscape Effects - Landscape Designations Great Cumbrae Medium Medium to Moderate to None Low to Zero Slight to None Special Landscape Zero Area Millport High-Medium High-Medium Substantial / Low to Zero Slight to None Conservation Area to Zero Moderate to None Coastal Zone Medium High to Zero Substantial / High to Zero Substantial / (Developed Coast) Moderate to None Moderate (offshore breakwater) to None Seascape Effects - Seascape Character Millport Coastal Medium High to Zero Substantial / High to Zero Substantial / Character Area Moderate to Moderate (offshore None breakwater) to None Visual Effects - Viewpoints
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Receptor Sensitivity Construction Effects Operation Effects Magnitude Level of Effect Magnitude Level of Effect VP1 – Milburn High High to Substantial to Low Moderate Street Medium Substantial / Moderate VP2 – Chricton High High Substantial Low Moderate Street VP3 – Clyde Street High High Substantial Medium-Low to Moderate Low VP4 – Millport Pier High to High- High to High- Substantial to Medium (offshore Substantial / Medium Medium Substantial / breakwater) Moderate (offshore Moderate breakwater) Low to Negligible Moderate to Slight (remainder of the (remainder of the proposed scheme) proposed scheme) VP5 – Stuart High High Substantial Low Moderate Street VP6 – Guildford High High to High- Substantial to Medium-Low to Moderate to Slight / Street Medium Substantial / Negligible Negligible Moderate VP7 – Glasgow High High to High- Substantial to Low to Negligible Moderate to Slight Street Medium Substantial / Moderate VP8 – Kelburn High High to High- Substantial to Low to Negligible Moderate to Slight Street Medium Substantial / Moderate VP9 – Farland Hill High Low to Moderate / Slight Negligible Slight to Negligible Negligible to Slight Visual Effects - Settlements Millport High High to Zero Substantial to Low to Zero Moderate to No View None Visual Effects – Transport Routes B896 Medium High to Zero Substantial / Medium-Low to Moderate to Slight / Moderate to Negligible Negligible None Visual Effects – Recreational Routes Cumbrae Cycle High High-Medium Substantial to Medium-Low to Moderate to Slight Route 1 (partly to Zero Substantial / Negligible overlapped by Moderate to B896, Core Paths None NC1, NC1a, NC2, NC77, NC74 and NC82) Inner Circle Walk High High-Medium Substantial to Low to Negligible Moderate to Slight (partly overlapped to Zero Substantial / by B896, Cumbrae Moderate to None Cycle Routes 1 and 2 and Core Paths NC2 and NC86) Farland Point Walk High High-Medium Substantial to Medium to Substantial / (partly overlapped to Zero Substantial / Negligible Moderate (offshore by B896, Cumbrae Moderate to breakwater) to Slight Cycle Route 1, None Core Paths NC1,
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Receptor Sensitivity Construction Effects Operation Effects Magnitude Level of Effect Magnitude Level of Effect NC1a, NC2, NC41, NC77 and NC82, and Inner Circle Walk) Fintray Bay Walk High High-Medium Substantial to Medium to Substantial / (partly overlapped to Zero Substantial / Negligible Moderate (offshore by B896, Cumbrae Moderate to breakwater) to Slight Cycle Route 1, None Core Paths NC1, NC74 and Targets Walk) Visual Effects – Recreational and Tourist Destinations Millport High High to Zero Substantial to Medium to Substantial / Promenade None Negligible Moderate (offshore breakwater) to Slight Crocodile Rock High Medium-Low Moderate Low Moderate Visual Effects – Sailing / Ferry Routes Waverley Steam High Negligible Slight Negligible Slight Paddler Recreational High High-Medium Substantial to High-Medium to Substantial to Yachts and to Negligible Substantial / Negligible Substantial / Small Vessels Moderate to Moderate (offshore Negligible breakwater) to Negligible
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22.8 Conclusions 200. The SLVIA has been undertaken in accordance with the Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Third Edition (GLVIA 3) by chartered landscape architects at Wood. The assessment process has encompassed the construction and operation phases of the proposed scheme and has included design development and re-assessment of the residual effects.
201. The design and assessment process has taken account of national and local planning requirements as described in Section 22.2, and the design considerations described in the Firth of Clyde Seascape Assessment, Section 7: Upper Firth of Clyde & The Cumbraes (2010), in relation to development in Millport.
202. The effects of the proposed scheme on the seascape, landscape and visual receptors within the Study Area was found to be greatest at the start of and during construction reducing towards the end of the construction period. In contrast, the level of effect during operation was found to be significantly lower than the effects during construction.
203. During construction, significant effects were assessed for the majority of receptors due to the spread of works and construction activity across the bay, and proximity and visibility of the proposed works. The construction period would be phased and likely to last up to 18 months. Significant effects on landscape and seascape character would be very localised and not affect the wider LCT / CCA. The receptors that would experience no significant effects include those at a distance from the proposed scheme including Farland Hill (Viewpoint 9), users of the P.S. Waverley, and the Great Cumbrae SLA (which does not extend into the settlement of Millport).
204. During operation, there would be no significant effects on landscape character. Significant effects were, however, assessed on the Coastal Zone (Developed Coast) and the Millport CCA only as a result of the proposed offshore flood protection works. Similarly, users of Millport promenade (including the pier – Viewpoint 4), Farland Point Walk, Fintry Bay Walk, Cumbrae Cycle Route 1, Core Path NC77 and the B896 (by the pier end only), and recreational users of yachts and small vessels in the bay would experience significant visual effects as a result of the proposed offshore flood protection works only. None of the above receptors would experience significant effects as a result of the proposed onshore flood protection works. The remaining receptors within the Study Area would not experience any significant effects.
205. Many of the elements of the proposed scheme are familiar features in the seascape and townscape and this is a key factor in the low level of effects during operation. The design of the proposed scheme further integrates the various elements into the surrounding features. Care has been taken with materials and colour choices for the works and many of the elements are low lying and unobtrusive, and replace or enhance existing elements such as revetments and sea walls. This has resulted in a design that seeks to unify existing disparate elements across the bay and provides a sense of quality and coherence.
206. Overall, the design and mitigation mean that the landscape, seascape and visual effects of the proposed scheme are reduced as far as possible and through the simple and clear design of the proposed scheme, where visible, can be viewed as acceptable in landscape terms.
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22.9 References
Ayrshire Paths – Cumbrae Walks and Cycling.
Firth of Clyde Forum (2013). Seascape / Landscape Assessment of the Firth of Clyde.
Historic Environment Scotland website - https://www.historicenvironment.scot/.
Landscape Institute and IEMA (2013). Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, Third Edition.
Landscape Institute (2019). Residential Visual Amenity Assessment: Technical Guidance Note 2/19.
Landscape Institute (2019). Visual Representation of Development Proposals, Technical Guidance Note.
National Trust for Scotland website - https://www.nts.org.uk/.
North Ayrshire Council, Coastal Design Guidance.
North Ayrshire Council, Core Paths Plan.
North Ayrshire Council, East Ayrshire Council and South Ayrshire Council (2007) Ayrshire Joint Structure Plan.
North Ayrshire Council (2008). Landscape Capacity Assessment – Arran and Cumbrae, Landscape Assessment of Potential Development Areas.
North Ayrshire Council (2013a). Millport Conservation Area Appraisal.
North Ayrshire Council (2013b). Millport Conservation Area Management Plan.
North Ayrshire Council (2019) Local Development Plan.
Scottish Government (2014a). National Planning Framework for Scotland.
Scottish Government (2014b). Scottish Planning Policy
Scottish Natural Heritage (2018). Coastal Character Assessment, Guidance Note, Version 1a.
Scottish Natural Heritage (2019). National Landscape Character Assessment.
Scottish Natural Heritage (2019). Scottish Landscape Character Types Map and Descriptions.
Visit Scotland website - https://www.visitscotland.com/.
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Key
Proposed Coastal FPS
SLVIA Study Area
Lines indicating the distance from the proposed coastal FPS 3 0 c s l i w
: r o t a n i g i r O
d x m . 1 0 0 A L G - 2 4
9 0.5km 1 4
\ 0 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 km S I G
c Scale at A3: 1:20,000 r A \ l © Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Licence number AL100001776. a c i n h Client c e T _ n 1km g i s e D
D \ l a s i a r Millport Flood Protection Scheme p p Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact A
e Assessment p 1.5km a c s d n a L
t Figure 22.1 r o
p Seascape, Landscape and Visual Study Area l l i (2km) M
2 4
9 2km 1 4 \ s t c e November 2019 j o r P \ : H Key
Proposed Coastal FPS
10 SLVIA Study Area P Lines indicating the distance from the proposed coastal FPS
Proposed Coastal FPS may be theoretically visible Note: Height range between 0.5m and 4m AOD as per the Project Description P Viewpoints
1) Milburn Street 2) Chricton Street 3) Clyde Street (rear view) 4) Millport Pier 5) Stuart Street 6) Guildford Street 7) Glasgow Street 8) Kelburn Street 9) Farland Hill P Scoped Out Viewpoints
10) Glaid Stone
8 P
7 P 6 P 5 P 3 4 P P 9 P 3
0 1 2 c P
s P l i w
: r o t a n i g i r Note: O
This drawing is based on a computer generated Zone of d x Theoretical Visibility (ZTV). The area in green indicates the m .
2 maximum theoretical visibility of the proposed coastal FPS 0
0 using Aerial Photography Derived 2m DSM data only and A
L takes into account some screening from vegetation and G - built-form. The ZTV also includes an adjustment that 2 4
9 0.5km allows for the Curvature and Light Refraction of the Earth 1 4
\ 0 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 km S I G
c Scale at A3: 1:20,000 r A \ l © Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Licence number AL100001776. a c i n h Client c e T _ n 1km g i s e D
D \ l a s i a r Millport Flood Protection Scheme p p Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact A
e Assessment p 1.5km a c s d n a L
t Figure 22.2 r o
p Zone of Theoretical Visibility (ZTV) to 2km l l i with viewpoints M
2 4
9 2km 1 4 \ s t c e November 2019 j o r P \ : H Key
Proposed Coastal FPS
SLVIA Study Area
Lines indicating the distance from the proposed coastal FPS
Landscape Character Types (LCTs), SNH 2019
59) Raised Beach Coast and Cliffs
61) Coastal Fringe with Agriculture
Coastal Character Areas, Landscape/Seascape Assessment of the Firth of Clyde Section 7, May 2013 Millport 61 Great or Big Cumbrae Island
Little Cumbrae Island
Largs to Goldenberry 3 0 c s l i w
: r o t a n i g i r O
d x m . 3 0 0 A L G - 2 4
9 0.5km 1 4
\ 0 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 km S I G
c Scale at A3: 1:20,000 r A \ l © Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Licence number AL100001776. a c i n h Client c e T _ n 1km g i s e D 1a D \ l a s i a r Millport Flood Protection Scheme p p Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact A
e Assessment p
a 1.5km c s 61 d n a L
t Figure 22.3 r o
p Landscape and Seascape Character (2km) l l i M
2 4
9 2km 1 4 \ s t c e November 2019 j o r P \ : H Key
Proposed Coastal FPS
SLVIA Study Area
Lines indicating the distance from the proposed coastal FPS Great Cumbrae Special Landscape Area
Millport Conservation Area
Coastal Zone Developed Coastline
Undeveloped Coastline
Isolated Coast 3 0 c s l i w
: r o t a n i g i r O
d x m . 5 0 0 A L G - 2 4
9 0.5km 1 4
\ 0 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 km S I G
c Scale at A3: 1:20,000 r A \ l © Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Licence number AL100001776. a c i n h Client c e T _
n 1km g i s e D
D \ l a s i a r Millport Flood Protection Scheme p p Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact A
e Assessment p 1.5km a c s d n a L
t Figure 22.4 r o
p Landscape Planning Designations (2km) l l i M
2 4
9 2km 1 4 \ s t c e November 2019 j o r P \ : H Key
Proposed Coastal FPS
SLVIA Study Area
Lines indicating the distance from the proposed coastal FPS Proposed Coastal FPS may be theoretically visible
1 C2 Note: Height range between 0.5m and 4m AOD as per N the Project Description
2 1 Cumbrae Cycle Routes
2 C
N 1) Round Island 2) Inner Circle to Glaid Stone
Core Paths
1) NC1 6) NC74 2 2) NC1a 7) NC77 3) NC2 8) NC82
1 4) NC41 9) NC86 C 5) NC44 N 3 1 C P N Waverley Ferry Route
2 C Inner Circle Walk
N 2 4 1 4 P C Farland Point Walk N 6 8 C 2 N Targets Walk NC86 N C1 a Fintry Bay Walk 1 4 7 P C2 P 7 N C P Tourist Attractions N 1) Crocodile Rock 1 2) Millport Holiday Park N
3 3) Millport Golf Course 0 C c 4) The Lion s 6 8 5 l i 5) Roberton Museum and Aquarium 2 w
P P
: 6) Westbourne Caravan Park
r 4
o 7 t C a n
i N g i N
r NC82 Note: C O
4 This drawing is based on a computer generated Zone of 1 d x Theoretical Visibility (ZTV). The area in green indicates the m .
6 maximum theoretical visibility of the proposed coastal FPS 0
0 using Aerial Photography Derived 2m DSM data only and A
L takes into account some screening from vegetation and G - built-form. The ZTV also includes an adjustment that 2 4
9 0.5km allows for the Curvature and Light Refraction of the Earth. 1 4
\ 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 km S I G
c Scale at A3: 1:20,000 r A \ l © Crown Copyright. All rights reserved. Licence number AL100001776. a c i n h Client c e T _ n 1km g i s e D
D \ l a s i a r Millport Flood Protection Scheme p p Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact A
e Assessment p
a 1.5km c s d n a L
t Figure 22.5 r o
p Recreational Routes and Key Tourist l l i Destinations (2km) M
2 4
9 2km 1 4 \ s t c e November 2019 j o r P \ : H West Bay Road
Concrete Crest Wall Millburn Street Foul Port 0.8m to 1.0m high
Concrete Flood Wall Replacement of Access Ramp 1.0 to 1.2m high Rock Armour on Seaward Side
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 1: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.6a Location grid reference: E215 710, N654 588 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 1 - Milburn Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera high: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 14:10 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA007.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA007.indd Millport Bay Mainland
Shore connected Rock Armour Breakwater Up to 2.4m above sea level (MHWS) The Spoig
Concrete Flood Wall 1.0 to 1.2m high Hunterston Power Station Offshore Breakwater Up to 2.6m above sea level (MHWS)
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 1: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.6b Location grid reference: E215 710, N654 588 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 1 - Milburn Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera high: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 14:10 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA007.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA007.indd Concrete Stepped Revetment Crichton Street Up to 8m wide and up to 2m high Millport Pier Mainland Farland Point Rock Armour Revetment Ninian Brae Up to 20m wide and up to 6m high Up to 2.4m above high water (MHWS)
Concrete Flood Wall 0.8m to 1.0m high
Eilean Island
Offshore Breakwater Up to 2.6m above MHWS
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 1: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.7a Location grid reference: E215 860, N654 566 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 2 - Crichton Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 14:20 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA008.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA008.indd The Spoig
Hunterston Power Station Mainland
Offshore Breakwater Little Cumbrae Up to 2.6m above high water (MHWS) Shore connected Rock Armour Breakwater Up to 2.6m above sea level (MHWS) Concrete flood wall (Millburn Street) 1.0 to 1.2m high Concrete flood wall (Crichton Street) 0.8 to 1.0m high
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 2: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.7b Location grid reference: E215 860, N654 566 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 2 - Crichton Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 14:20 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA008.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA008.indd Farland Point South Eilean Mainland
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 3: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.8a Location grid reference: E216 033, N654 700 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 3 - Clyde Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 14:40 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA009.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA009.indd Hunterston Power Station The Spoig The Leug (Submerged)
Offshore Breakwater Up to 2.6m above high water (MHWS)
Rock Armour Revetment Up to 20m wide and up to 6m high Up to 2.4m above high water (MHWS)
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 3: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.8b Location grid reference: E216 033, N654 700 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 3 - Clyde Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 14:40 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA009.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA009.indd Cathedral of the Isles
Newtown Bay Pier Infrastructure Re-face Existing Wall (Landward Side) No change in wall height Flood Walls [The view of this structure is unchanged] Up to 0.9m high
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 4 : Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.9a Location grid reference: E216 169, N654 681 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 4 - Millport Pier GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 14:50 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA010.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA010.indd Millport Bay Mainland Hill South Eilean
North Eilean Offshore Breakwater Increased Ground Levels and Concrete Flood Walls / Seating Up to 2.6m above high water (MHWS) - Up to 1.2m high Concrete Stepped Revetment - Up to 10m wide and up to 3m high Concrete Crest Wall Jetty Refurbishment Up to 0.8m high
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 4: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.9b Location grid reference: E216 169, N654 681 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 4 - Millport Pier GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 14:50 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA010.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA010.indd Hunterston Power Station The Spoig The Leug Little Cumbrae Offshore Breakwater Up to 2.6m above MHWS
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 4: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.9c Location grid reference: E216 169, N654 681 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 4 - Millport Pier GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 14:50 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA010.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA010.indd Isle of Arran Pier Infrastructure Concrete Flood Wall (Crichton Street) 0.8 to 1.0m high Shore Connected Rock Breakwater Armour Breakwater Up to 2.4m above high water (MHWS)
Rock Armour Revetment Up to 20m wide and up to 6m high Up to 2.4m above high water (MHWS)
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 4: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.9d Location grid reference: E216 169, N654 681 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 4 - Millport Pier GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 14:50 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA010.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA010.indd Jetty Ninean Brae Millport Bay Mainland North Eilean South Eilean
Increased Ground Levels and Concrete Flood Walls / Seating - Up to 1.2m high Concrete Stepped Revetment - Up to 10m wide and up to 3m high Jetty Refurbishment Concrete Crest Wall Up to 0.8m high
Concrete Flood Wall Up to 0.7m high
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 5: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.10a Location grid reference: E216 169, N654 681 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 5 - Stuart Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 15:15 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA011.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA011.indd Re-face Existing Wall (Landward Side) No change in wall height
Hunterston Power Station
Millport Pier
Offshore Breakwater Up to 2.6m above high water (MHWS)
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 5: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.10b Location grid reference: E216 132, N654 837 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 5 - Stuart Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 15:15 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA011.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA011.indd Guildford Street
Glasgow Street
Increased Ground Levels and Concrete Flood Walls / Seating - Up to 1.2 high Concrete Stepped Revetment - Up to 10m wide and up to 3m high Jetty Refurbishment
Concrete Flood Wall Up to 0.7m high Concrete Crest Wall Up to 0.8m high
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 6: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.11a Location grid reference: E216 296, N654 937 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 6 - Guildford Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 13:55 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA012.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA012.indd Millport Cenotaph
Little Cumbrae Mainland South Eilean Millport Bay North Eilean Hunterston Power Station
Offshore Breakwater Up to 2.6m above high water (MHWS)
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 6: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.11b Location grid reference: E216 296, N654 937 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 6 - Guildford Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 13:55 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA012.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA012.indd Cross House
Ninean Brae Concrete Flood Wall 1.0m to 1.2m high (Cross House Seaward Facing Garden Wall Replaced at Same height)
Concrete Stepped Revetment / Terraced Seating Leading from Promenade to Foreshore
Concrete Stepped Revetment / Terraced Seating from Promenade to Foreshore Up to 10.0m wide and up to 3.0m high
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 7: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.12a Location grid reference: E216 795, N655 008 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 7 - Glasgow Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 13:25 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA013.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA013.indd The Eileans Little Cumbrae Isle of Arran
Increased Ground Levels Concrete Flood Wall 1.0m to 1.2m high at Seaward Side of Grass Area Glasgow Street
Concrete Seating / Flood Wall Up to 0.7m high
Concrete Stepped Revetment / Terraced Seating from Promenade to Foreshore Up to 10m wide and up to 3m high
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 7: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.12b Location grid reference: E216 795, N655 008 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 7 - Glasgow Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 13:25 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA013.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA013.indd Kames Bay Road Ninean Brae Kames Bay Mainland
Farland Point Raised Grass Areas wth Terraced Steps / Seating to meet Promenade Grass raised by up to 1m, steps up to 1.5m high
Concrete Crest Wall Up to 0.8m high
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 8: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.13a Location grid reference: E217 031, N655 185 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 8 - Kelburn Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 13:35 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA014.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA014.indd Isle of Arran Little Cumbrae
Kelburn Street
Concrete Stepped Revetment / Terraced Seating Up to 10m wide and up to 3.0m high Raised grass area with Terraced Steps / Setting beyond to meet Promenade Grass raised by up to 1m, steps up to 1.5m high
Concrete Flood Wall 1.0m to 1.2m high
Offshore Breakwater Up to 2.6m above high water (MHWS)
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 8: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.13b Location grid reference: E217 031, N655 185 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 8 - Kelburn Street GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 13:35 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA014.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA014.indd Isle of Arran Isle of Bute Little Cumbrae
Millport Bay North Eilean South Eilean Rock Armour Revetment Up to 20m wide and up to 6m high Up to 2.4m above high water (MHWS)
Offshore Breakwater Up to 2.6m above high water (MHWS) Shore Connected Rock Armour Concrete Flood Wall Breakwater Up to 1.2m high Up to 2.6m above high level Re-face Existing Wall (Landward Side) Concrete Flood Wall Concrete Stepped Revetment / Terraced Seating (MHWS) No change in wall height Up to 0.7m high Raised Grass Areas [The view of this structure is unchanged]
0 m 375 m
Scale 1:10,000 @ A3
Photograph Parameters Viewpoint 9: Client Millport Flood Protection Scheme Figure 22.14 Location grid reference: E217 445, N654 693 Seascape, Landscape and Visual Impact Viewpoint 9 - Farland Hill GPS location accuracy: +/- 3m Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk II Assessment Horizontal field of view: 90º (cylindrical projection) Lens: 50mm November 2019 Paper size: 820mm x 250mm (A1) Camera height: 1.5m AGL
Correct printed image size: 315 x 95mm Date and time: 15/10/2019 12:30 H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA015.indd Originator: brycc H:\Projects\41942 Millport Landscape Appraisal\D Design_Technical\Drawings\41942-GLA015.indd